Sylvinho is set to hold new contract talks with Barcelona sports director Txiki Begiristain next week.

After indications suggested earlier this season that the 33 year-old Brazilian would be allowed to leave in the summer, Barca sources say now Begiristain is ready to offer a new 12-month deal to the ex-Arsenal left-back.

Begiristain has scoured the continent for a capable understudy for Eric Abidal and has come to the conclusion that the best option would be to renew Sylvinho's contract.