Marquez to sign contract extension with Barcelona

MADRID, Jun 26 (Reuters) Barcelona's Mexico defender Rafael Marquez is set to sign a contract extension with the European and Spanish champions which will keep him with the club until 2010.

''I will speak to Barcelona today. There are one or two minor details to sort out but it is a fact that I will sign for another four years,'' the Mexico captain, was reported as saying in the Spanish media today.

''I was never interested in other offers because I believe we have a team of great players who can achieve a lot more. I would love to end my career with Barcelona.'' The 27-year-old centre back, who can also play in midfield, joined Barca from Monaco in 2003 and has been a stalwart at the back in Frank Rijkaard's side.

Mexico were knocked out of the World Cup by Argentina 2-1 after extra-time in the last 16 on Saturday.

REUTERS PDS HT1642