May 27, 2001

                                 Rexach: Toldo deal is not done yet

Francesco Toldo's switch to Barcelona may not be as clear-cut as first appeared, after coach Carles Rexach suggested he
may not be prepared to meet Fiorentina's price-tag and that he is also considering other goalkeeping options.

It is believed that Barca are ready to part with £18 million in an attempt to land a four-year deal with the highly rated
29-year-old, although Rexach says that he is also weighing up alternatives as he looks to solve the Catalan giants' problems
between the sticks.

"We have other alternatives and I don't think we have to spend $30 millions on a goalkeeper," he remarked.

"I know there are negotiations but nothing is already ended."

The Italian international was widely tipped to complete the switch upon his return from national duties in Georgia, although
Rexach's latest comments indicate that reports of a 'done deal' may be premature at this stage.

                                        Toldo joining Barcelona

It's not official yet, but there is already a word agreement which seems not possible to broke up between Italian club
Fiorentina and Spanish giants FC Barcelona for the transfer of Italy's goalie Francesco Toldo.

Fiorentina should receive around 50 billion lire from the sale of the player, after Italian club rejected to include any
Barcelona's player in the negotiation, asking just for money. There is only a small possibility Florence's side could receive
on loan 19 years old midfielder Arteta Mikel.

By his side Toldo should sign a four year contract and to have a salary around 8 billion lire for season.

The player, in press silence, didn't comment the news. In last months there were many rumours about an his possible transfer
to AS Roma or Juventus.

                                  Courtesy: Planet Soccer & Italian Soccer