Argentine striker Javier Saviola is surplus to requirements at Barcelona, the Spanish champions said on Wednesday.

"He did well for Barcelona but in the current side we have players who offer more. We are well covered in every type forward," Barcelona sports director Txiki Begiristain told the club's website.

Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o top-scored with 24 goals last season, and behind him the club have Sweden's Henrik Larsson and Argentine Maxi Lopez.

Argentine youngster Lionel Messi is also making a strong case to be included in the first team. "Last year we signed Eto'o who is a very similar type of player and who performed perfectly. As second striker we have Larsson who plays well with his back to goal.

"As a third option we have Maxi who is very good in tight situations."

Saviola, who is contracted until 2006, spent last season on loan at Monaco and now looks set for another spell away from the Nou Camp.

"He won't get the chance to play here and at his age he should be playing," Begiristain added.

"We are in contact with a number of clubs to find the best deal for the club and the player. In these situations the player usually tells us where he wants to go on loan."

City rivals Espanyol are reported to be interested in signing Saviola, who joined Barca from River Plate in 2001.