Speaking at the Laureus World Sport awards in the Catalan capital on Monday, Laporta was asked about the future of the 2006 World Player of the Year, whose form has been questioned this term.

Laporta replied that, in the same way that Barcelona is 'more than a club', Ronaldinho is 'more than a player'.

The Brazillian playmaker has been linked with a move to Italy - in particular AC Milan - in recent months, after reports of discord in the Barca dressing room.

However, Laporta moved to quash such speculation, claiming that recent conversations with Ronaldinho's brother and agent - Roberto De Assis - have assured him that the player does not want a move away from the Nou Camp.

Laporta also spoke on the futures of coach Frank Rijkaard and striker Javier Saviola.

He confirmed that Rijkaard will stay with Barcelona, despite reports of friction between the pair.

Laporta declared that he could not imagine a time when he was president and Rijkaard was not the coach.

On Saviola, whose contract expires at the end of June, Laporta confirmed that he would be offered a new deal to stay with the club.

When asked about reported interest in Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo, Laporta simply said there was 'nothing to say'

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