"Barcelona" begins negotiations for the acquisition of Afellay © EuroFootball.com

The negotiations for the acquisition of Eindhoven PSV goalkeeper Ibrahim Afellay have begun, as announced by the Spanish press.

The 24-year-old footballer is expected to take the place previously reserved for Cesc Fabregas amongst the ranks of the Spanish champions. "Barcelona" has unsuccessfully tried to acquire this player for several years in a row.

Affelay's contract with PSV will expire next summer, so the club plans to sell him in winter as the negotiations for an extension of the contract ended unsuccessfully.

However, "Barcelona" will face serious competition in the battle for Afellay. It is said that "Man Utd", "Liverpool" and several other clubs are also interested in him.