BARCELONA'S unsettled Argentine striker Javier Saviola has been linked with a move to Charlton.

Txiki Beguiristain, who handles all Barcelona's transfer negotiations, has said that Charlton and French club Lyon have inquired after Saviola and has spoken to Richard Whitehead, deputy chairman of Charlton Athletic PLC, about the player. Saviola joined Barcelona from Argentinian club River Plate in 2001.

Manager Alan Curbishley declined to comment on the speculation after Wednesday's 3-0 win over Aston Villa. But he moved to scotch rumours linking out of favour striker Jonatan Johansson with a move to Premier League newcomers Norwich.

"I'm not letting anyone leave because we need strength in depth," he said.

Johansson was among the substitutes for the Villa game but did not get on.