Kaviedes exits Celta

The Ecuador international hit-man has found himself out of favour at the Balaidos for some time, and has been repeatedly linked with a move away from the Galicians.

He had seemed set to join Independiente last summer, while a move to Saudi Arabia was also mooted, but both switches fell through.

However, it now seems that the 26-year-old is ready to head back to his homeland, although as yet there has been no official confirmation of the deal.

"Barcelona, in a joint negotiation with Kaviedes, have permanently acquired the player's services to strengthen the team for the Copa Libertadores and the domestic championship," stated Barcelona director Carlos Rodriguez.

Kaviedes is his country's top scorer at international level with 43 goals, and originally joined Celta in the 1999/2000 campaign.