Barca are reportedly in pole position to sign Ribery and, should Bayern decide to sell, they will have first option.

Ribery has been rumoured to be leaving Bayern this summer, with both Barcelona and Real Madrid possible destinations.

However, even though Real Madrid have been strongly linked with the France international, El Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona have stolen a march on their great rivals.

It is believed that Barcelona president, Joan Laporta, has been in touch with Bayern vice president, Karl Heinz Rummenigge, recently and that they have a good relationship.

Joan Laporta apparently has the Bayern man's word that should they sell Franck Ribery, then Barcelona will have the first option and will know about it before anyone else.

Bayern have, however, stated that Franck Ribery is not for sale, but there have been reports that should a huge offer arrive, they could not afford to turn it down.

Real Madrid do have the advantage of Zinedine Zidane, though, and the former France legend is apparently attempting to convince Franck Ribery to join Real Madrid.

The Catalans French contingent of Thierry Henry and Eric Abidal might not have as much sway, but they are still reported to be in contact with the winger.

As well as the influence of players and friends, Franck Ribery apparently does like Barcelona more than Madrid as a city, saying he is a fan of the beach and the location.

Barca are reportedly in pole position to sign Ribery and, should Bayern decide to sell, they will have first option.

Ribery has been rumoured to be leaving Bayern this summer, with both Barcelona and Real Madrid possible destinations.

However, even though Real Madrid have been strongly linked with the France international, El Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona have stolen a march on their great rivals.

It is believed that Barcelona president, Joan Laporta, has been in touch with Bayern vice president, Karl Heinz Rummenigge, recently and that they have a good relationship.

Joan Laporta apparently has the Bayern man's word that should they sell Franck Ribery, then Barcelona will have the first option and will know about it before anyone else.

Bayern have, however, stated that Franck Ribery is not for sale, but there have been reports that should a huge offer arrive, they could not afford to turn it down.

Real Madrid do have the advantage of Zinedine Zidane, though, and the former France legend is apparently attempting to convince Franck Ribery to join Real Madrid.

The Catalans French contingent of Thierry Henry and Eric Abidal might not have as much sway, but they are still reported to be in contact with the winger.

As well as the influence of players and friends, Franck Ribery apparently does like Barcelona more than Madrid as a city, saying he is a fan of the beach and the location.