Barcelona step up bid for Hleb and Adebayor with second round of talks

Barca vice-president Marc Ingla spent yesterday in London holding talks with Arsenal, who have so far stood firm in their desire not to sell and are quietly confident that striker Adebayor can still be convinced to sign a new deal.

However, Barcelona president Joan Laporta is particularly keen to have big name signings in place before the club election on July 6.

Reports in Spain yesterday claimed a £21m fee has been agreed for Adebayor while midfielder Hleb would cost £12m.