Two midfielders that Xavi wants for Barcelona, one is a La Masia graduate

While Barcelona’s desire to bolster the defensive midfield position is an open secret by now, Xavi is also in favor of signing interior midfielders who can lend a hand higher up the pitch.

Despite having Ilkay Gundogan, Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, and Fermin for the two central midfield spots, the 44-year-old coach aspires to have more depth.

His reasons are clear: Gundogan and Frenkie de Jong often play deeper roles; Gavi is recovering from a serious injury; Pedri’s fitness is unreliable, and Frenkie De Jong’s contract situation could lead to a departure.

As such, SPORT have reported that Xavi has his eyes on two midfielders who could ensure the team has reliable options even if the current lineup faces setbacks.

Bernardo Silva

Xavi was in favour of signing Bernardo Silva last summer as well, but economic constraints compelled Barcelona to exercise caution.

Now, due to the 29-year-old’s €58 million release clause coming into play this year, Barça are once again considering pursuing Bernardo Silva.

Xavi particularly values his skill and experience at the elite level, considering him a valuable asset in a team that lacks players of his stature.

With the versatility to play centrally or on the right wing, Xavi believes Bernardo’s passing ability could significantly elevate Barcelona’s game. And at nearly 30, he still has several years of high-level football ahead of him.

Xavi Simons

The former academy graduate has been on the ascendance with RB Leipzig this season, proving to be a massive threat on the left wing.

Xavi recognizes Simons’ exceptional skill as well as his familiarity with the Barça system, having trained in the team’s youth ranks before being signed by PSG upon completing his cadet year.

In addition, the coach is aware that Simons is eager to return to Barcelona, as his representatives have hinted. However, the move is not expected to be straightforward.

Simons is under contract with PSG until 2027 with an €80 million…

Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/two-midfielders-that-xavi-wants-for-barcelona-one-is-a-la-masia-graduate/

Author : Shahraiz Sajjad

Publish date : 2024-05-03 08:40:00

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