Serra Ferrer holds up Cris move to Barca

Barcelona manager Lorenzo Serra Ferrer is stalling over the signing of Brazil centre-back Cris from Cruzeiro – even though the player has already agreed personal terms.

Serra Ferrer is unconvinced the player will add sufficient quality to the squad and wants more time to make up his mind.

In any case, Barcelona cannot tie up the deal until club president Joan Gaspart returns from his holiday on January 31.

Serra Ferrer asked to see video footage of the defender, specifically from the recent Cruzeiro-Vasco da Gama clash, even though he had already read countless technical reports from his scouting staff.

The Azulgrana boss, who last Thursday spent an hour discussing the merits of the signing with assistant coach Charly Rexach, is also keen to find out more about the player's character.

The coach has had disagreements with a few players this season, most notably Emmanuel Petit, over what their best positions are and does not want any more disruption.

Cris is the only player Barca are seriously interested in and the club are not about to make any other signings.

However, there is no doubt that the Catalan giants are fragile at the back. They have conceded 14 more goals than title rivals and League leaders Valencia.

Earlier this week, Cris said: "I would be delighted if Cruzeiro and Barcelona can reach an agreement because Barca are a top club and it would be magnificent to play at the Nou Camp."