Laporta has already stated that he aims to buy a world star each season and the appearances of the English-based players, along with Emerson, Francesco Totti, Fabio Cannavaro and Tim Howard at a get-together arranged by Nike has fuelled speculation in the Catalan capital that one could end up with the club by next season.

Laporta, vice-president Sandro Rosell and ex-coach Johan Cruyff talked to the players, although the club's official line was that they were discussing themes other than a possible transfer coup.

German newspaper Bild, meanwhile, has claimed that Liverpool's Michael Owen and Juventus' Pavel Nedved are the players wanted by Barca.

However, club spokesman Juanjo Castillo said the club had not set their eyes on a particular player.

"At the moment we are still going through the squad with the coach, looking at which players to keep and then we will see who is available and at what price but at the moment we are not looking at Michael Owen or any other player in particular," he said.

Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard, speaking exclusively to PA International, admitted a striker was a priority.

"What we need is a striker who can create chances in the box, is quick, has good feet and can run on to balls from the wingers," he said.

Asked if that player is Owen he replied: "What do you think?"