Two players Xavi would want Barcelona to sign if he stays as manager – report

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez’s future has been called into question a great deal over the past few weeks.

While Xavi officially declared his decision to step down at the end of the season, Barcelona’s upturn in form, paired with the club’s inability to settle for a suitable successor, has changed the situation.

Now, Joan Laporta and co. are making all efforts to ensure Xavi’s continuity beyond the season, retaining hope that the 44-year-old will eventually come around.

In fact, recent reports have even argued that certain Barcelona players believe Xavi will reconsider and stay on as manager, as he is showing renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Xavi will continue on his terms

While the manager’s attitude indicates he is eager to prolong his tenure, Alex Pintanel states that should Xavi stay beyond this season, he would set conditions for the club.

Indeed, he wants to fortify the team rather than allow it to deteriorate, with signings taking place in the summer transfer window.

For example, last summer Barcelona bid one of their most important players Sergio Busquets farewell and only signed an aging Oriol Romeu as a stopgap, who has struggled to emulate his impact.

To avoid such scenarios again, Xavi intends to have more control in that aspect and will only stay put if Barça beefs up their ranks.

Who is Xavi eyeing?

As per the report, Bernardo Silva and Martin Zubimendi are still on Xavi’s radar. The coach hoped that the club would sign the pair last summer, but due to Barça’s financial condition, his wishes were left unanswered.

This time around, though, Xavi is unwilling to make compromises. Bernardo reportedly has a £50 million release clause in his contract with Manchester City, which is a significant discount from the €80–100 million the Cityzens had previously demanded for him.

Meanwhile, Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi continues to be an appealing option to fortify the defensive midfield position.

Reports have stated that Barcelona are targeting a move for a holding midfielder and the Catalans proceed to be avid admirers of Zubimendi.

It is unlikely that Barça would be able to afford both names as their financial situation continues to remain in a poor state. But Xavi would be seeking top-level reinforcements if he wishes to stay.