Ben Arfa, 29, is out of contract this summer and L'Equipe reported on Friday that the former Newcastle attacker was in advanced negotiations with the Spanish league leaders.
Responding to that report, Rivere, 58, acknowledged that the Catalans were in contact with Ben Arfa but said that the deal is not quite done.
"Barcelona are indeed one of the numerous clubs who have asked for Hatem," he told France 3. "Frankly if it could happen I would be very, very happy for Hatem, who deserves to go to a club like Barca.
"You don't refuse a club like Barca, in my opinion, but it's his decision.
"If I was a player, I wouldn't ask any questions, I'd go to Barca. I would be very happy if it happens and we're very happy for the club as well because it shows that at Nice we're capable of sometimes having exceptional players.
"But it's not yet done, according to what Hatem has told me. They're still in discussions."
Ben Arfa has returned to form in spectacular style this season, scoring 17 goals and making five more to help Nice to fifth in Ligue 1 with two matches to play. He's also been nominated for the league's player of the year award.
L'Equipe reports Barcelona are planning to sign him to provide back-up for their front trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar.
Ben Arfa is now set to play his final home game for Nice on Saturday as they face a crucial test against fourth-placed Saint-Etienne.
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