Barcelona to shift their focus on two key renewals after Xavi’s appointment

The past few days in Spain have been filled with news regarding Barcelona’s managerial situation. The club parted ways with Ronald Koeman last week, and Sergi Barjuan has taken over as an interim manager.

The Blaugranas are working to secure the arrival of Xavi Hernandez in the coming week. The Spaniard was the only option considered, though many names have been linked with the job in the past.

The negotiations are said to be close to completion. Al Sadd and Barcelona are close to agreeing on terms and it is only a matter of time before Xavi is unveiled as the new manager.

Meanwhile, the ever-reliable Fabrizio Romano has revealed the Catalan club’s next focus once Xavi’s arrival is announced. According to the Italian journalist, Barcelona will focus on two-player renewals at the earliest.

Ousmane Dembele’s renewal has been an ongoing saga for a few months now. Though Laporta has tried repeatedly to secure a deal, the Frenchman’s agent offered the player to other European sides including Real Madrid whilst rejecting Barcelona’s efforts.

However, Xavi’s arrival is said to have triggered a change in heart. The 24-year-old is now ready to sign an extension with Barcelona. His contract ends in the coming summer, and his renewal is the priority.

The other player whose contract will be worked on after Xavi’s appointment is Gavi. The young Spaniard has been the revelation of the season so far.

At 17 years of age, he also became the youngest debutant with the Spanish National Team when he was selected for the Nations League. Given his sudden burst to prominence, Barcelona will look to tie him down before advances by other clubs.