Rivaldo says he would understand if Barcelona sold him

Barcelona's Rivaldo says he would understand if the club wanted to sell him to bring in a younger player.

"The club may look for a player of between 20 and 23 years old with similar characteristics to me, but one who is cheaper," the Brazilian forward told Onda Cataluna radio station.

"They could sell me thinking of the future. I will soon be 29 years old and if I stay until the end of my contract, I will be 31 and will be able to go for free."

"I can understand the situation that the club finds itself in. I won't be a Barcelona player forever," he said.

However, the former World Player of the Year made it clear that he wanted to stay at Barcelona.

"I am happy here and if it was down to me I would stay for the two years left in my contract, but that is all up to Barcelona."

Rivaldo said he was enjoying the present season more than the last campaign.

"Last season was very complicated. I scored 23 goals, but we didn't win a title and the pressure on me was immense.

"It was said that I was a liar and that I was going to leave for Italy or England. On the other hand everyone was singing the praises of (Luis) Figo.

"In the end he was the one that left and I was the one that stayed. And now I am happy to be at Barcelona."