Real Madrid whiz-kid Portillo linked with Barcelona presidency

Barcelona's presidential race is being linked with a possible deal for Real Madrid whiz kid Javier Portillo.

Several Catalan newspapers have reported that the youngster is being lined up by candidates to help tip the balance ahead of the summer elections.

Indeed, Portillo's agent, Herminio Menendez, was reportedly in Barcelona yesterday for meetings.

The youngster is still to be offered a new contract by Real and his current buyout clause is believed to be £10 million. He is also one of the lowest paid players at the club, receiving £80,000-a-year.

However, Menendez told Marca last night: "Portillo is wanted by Real Madrid and we are waiting on their call."

"I deny sharply that somebody running for candidacy of Barcelona has approached us."

Menendez also denied that he visited Barcelona this week.