Soccer-Barcelona agree to sign Inter's Maxwell

BARCELONA, July 15 (Reuters) - Barcelona have agreed to buy Inter Milan's Brazilian left back Maxwell, the European champions said on Wednesday.

A statement on Barca's website (www.fcbarcelona.com) said the initial fee would be 4.5 million euros ($6.32 million), rising to a possible 5 million.

Maxwell, who won three league titles with Inter, lost his place last season to teenager Davide Santon and is being sold after coach Jose Mourinho said his squad was too large.

If he agrees personal terms, the 27-year-old will fight with Frenchman Eric Abidal for the left-back slot at Barcelona following the departure of Silvinho.

The former Cruzeiro and Ajax player can also play in midfield. (Writing by Mark Meadows in Milan; Editing by Kevin Fylan; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)