Xavi reacts to Chelsea links with Gavi

Xavi Hernandez believes Gavi will remain with Barcelona amid his contract debacle and those persistent links to Chelsea.

Xavi Hernandez knows all about Barcelona and has the club’s DNA ingrained in him. Many of the club’s younger players often admire the former great’s performances and dream of emulating him at Camp Nou.

In recent years Barcelona have developed two generational midfield talents in Pedri and Gavi. The duo is the club’s future; fans generally expect them to fulfil their talents here for a long time. However, a problem is brewing in the background with Gavi, who could potentially leave in the summer.

Gavi has already played 87 times for the Barcelona first team and remains one of their key players. While he wants to stay put at the club and make a mark in the future, the legality of his stay could come into question. That said, it is a problem with his contract owing to the club’s financial turmoil.

La Liga and the Spanish courts rescinded Gavi’s senior contract. He, effectively, is back on his old deal, which would let him leave the club on a free transfer legally. Barcelona have not acted to regulate the situation, as many fear their stance could lead to dire consequences.

In the last week, links to Chelsea have emerged in the media. There have been suggestions that Todd Boehly has already met with Gavi’s agent, Ivan de la Pena. He also remains eager to meet with the 18-year-old’s parents to explain the project.

Those Chelsea links have reportedly been discussed in Spanish circles. Reporters asked Xavi about it during his recent press conference. The Barcelona boss’ comments on 90 Min showed he was not deterred about the key star’s future, insisting he will not find happiness elsewhere.

Xavi said, “I don’t think Gavi would be happy at a different club. He has everything here at 18 and is an important player for the team. I think his future is here at the club.”

Chelsea have spent around £600 million on new players, mostly young talents, in the last two windows. Their co-owner, Boehly, remains intent on adding many more names and will certainly chase a star like Gavi if he becomes available.

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to make Gavi one of their highest-paid stars next season. The idea of joining a big English club would entice any player, but the Barcelona star, like his manager, Xavi, has the club’s DNA ingrained in him.

His immediate future remains in danger, and much will depend on how Barcelona sort their problems out to hand him a new contract. In any case, Gavi would fit into any team in the world, let alone Chelsea.