Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard is close to signing a new contract with the Spanish champions, according to club president Joan Laporta.

“We’ve reached verbal agreement,” Laporta told the club’s website.

“There are still some minor details to be worked out when we get back to Barcelona,” he added.

“There’s no rush, as there’s very good communication and a lot of confidence between us.”

Rijkaard took over as manager of the club in 2003. His existing contract runs out in 2007.