Manchester United also chasing legendary Barcelona figure…
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In news that will undoubtedly excite fans of Premier League football, Arsenal could compete with Manchester United for the signature of Xavi this summer.
Both the Premier League giants want the ageing Spaniard, who stars for Barcelona in La Liga, reports the Daily Star.
The 34-year-old iconic midfielder still has two years left on his contract with Barcelona, but the Gunners and the Red Devils could try and tempt him to test his mettle in the Premier League as his career draws to its close.
Xavi is no longer a guaranteed starter with the Catalan club he first represented way back in 1998. During his career, he’s won practically everything on offer to him, including three Champions Leagues, countless La Liga titles, and a World Cup and two European Championship wins with Spain.
With the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets already competing for starting midfield berths though, Barcelona believe they can afford to let one of their greatest ever players leave.
His agent has apparently offered him to various Premier League clubs, and Arsenal and United are thought to be the most interested in his services.
The Gunners already play a slick brand of passing football which would seemingly suit Xavi perfectly, while United are desperate for midfield enforcements following a miserable season.
It’s unlikely United would sign Xavi though without the consent of the new manager who is yet to be appointed, although it’s thought that Louis van Gaal will take the reigns. The Dutch boss previously managed Xavi during two stints with Barcelona – and will no doubt be keen to lead one of the game’s legendary figures once again.
This term, Xavi’s scored three and assisted two in La Liga, but averages more passes per match (88.4) than any player in Europe – which proves that despite his age, he can still influence matches and dictate tempo in the centre.
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