Laudrup coy on Barcelona speculation

Swansea boss Michael Laudrup has refused to comment on suggestions that he could replace Tito Vilanova at Barcelona.

The Catalan club announced that Vilanova would be stepping down on Friday in order to continue receiving treatment for throat cancer – the illness that saw him miss large parts of the 2012-13 campaign.

A host of names have subsequently been linked with taking on the role in the 44-year-old’s absence, including Laudrup, who spent five years of his playing career at the Camp Nou.

But the Dane has no knowledge of who Barca may approach.

“I can’t comment on the speculation, it’s all just happened today and even for those in the club who maybe knew about the situation, I still think the announcement will have come as a shock,” he said.

“Just a few weeks ago I read he had said he was strong and feeling 100 per cent ahead of the new season, but now he’s gone. I don’t know what they’re going to do so let’s see.

“I don’t know Vilanova personally but of course I have been following what has happened. It’s very sad. I don’t know much more than what has been announced tonight.

“I hope he will get fit again as this is only football and life is more important.”

Laudrup led Swansea to ninth in the Premier League and victory in the League Cup in his debut season in Wales.