Pierre flattered by Barca talk

The Dutch international has been nothing short of inspirational for Feyenoord, helping them lift the Uefa Cup last season, but he could be headed for the Kuip exit door.

The 33-year-old has previously stressed that he would love to lift the title with Feyenoord, but that is unlikely to happen this season.

Feyenoord have an option to extend his contract, which expires at the end of the season, with talks set to take place soon.

However, Barca coach Louis van Gaal has been linked with a bid for the former Celtic man and van Hooijdonk is flattered by the talk.

Speaking to Algemeen Dagblad, he said: "It's always good to hear if my name is linked to a big team such as Barcelona.

"The club first have to make contact with Feyenoord, as my contract will expire at the end of the season.

"Furthermore I want to know what Feyenoord want to do."

Feyenoord would love to keep van Hooijdonk in Rotterdam, but a sizeable offer from the Spanish giants could prove very tempting for coach Bert van Marwijk.

Van Hooijdonk has recently been linked with a move to Birmingham in the English press, but Barcelona would almost certainly be a more desirable destination than the Midlands.

Blues supremo David Gold has confirmed they are admirers of van Hooijdonk and feels manager Steve Bruce could be the right man to harness his talent.