Barcelona admit holding Villa talks

(GETTY IMAGES)

Barcelona have admitted holding "open talks" with Valencia over Spain striker David Villa.

Villa was thought to be close to leaving cash-strapped Valencia for Real Madrid but the Primera Division champions have now confirmed their interest in the 27-year-old.

Barca's vice-president Rafael Yuste told Radio Catalunya: "There are many players who are interested in coming to play at Barcelona and I think that people have to know this.

"The talks (over Villa) are absolutely open."

It is thought Villa himself will make the final decision. However, that is clouded by his involvement in the Confederations Cup in South Africa.