After months of speculation the cash-strapped Catalan club have announced that they are to cut the Holland striker’s salary, triggering a £1.2million buy-out clause in his contract.
A statement on Barcelona’s official website confirmed: "FC Barcelona gave written notice to Patrick Kluivert and his agents on Friday of the Club's decision not to pay the special bonus for next season.
"The player's contract states that the Club had until 29th June to announce whether or not it would pay this bonus for the 2003-04 season.
"FC Barcelona and Patrick Kluivert's agent will meet this Wednesday to discuss the player's contractual conditions."
The 26-year-old has recently been variously quoted as saying he is interested in Manchester United, Arsenal and Newcastle United – however whether or not any of the reported comments originated from the player’s own mouth is another matter.
Before anyone gets too excited though there is the small matter of Kluivert’s £4million a year salary, and whether or not he will be looking to exploit his small transfer fee to try and negotiate a pay rise.