La Liga midfielder continues to be Xavi’s ‘wet dream’ for Barcelona

Barcelona were finally dealt with the inevitable today, with reports across Spain confirming Sergio Busquets’ decision to leave the club at the end of the season.

It was no secret that the midfielder was not on board with the significant salary cut. He also had the desire to try his luck elsewhere, after spending the entirety of his career at Camp Nou.

Busquets’ likely exit means Barcelona must enter the market for a new midfielder this summer. The club have been already making some moves in the market, notably being linked with Fiorentina star Sofyan Amrabat.

Many claim the Moroccan international is the ideal option for the coaching staff due to his ability to play both as a number eight and as a six.

However, according to Gerard Romero, Xavi’s ‘wet dream’ is to sign Martin Zubimendi this coming summer. The Real Sociedad starlet has been long linked with a move to Barcelona, with the coaching staff identifying him as the ideal replacement for Busquets.

With 138 competitive matches for Sociedad, Zubimendi has gained significant experience at the highest level of football. The defensive midfielder is also known for his technical prowess and the ability to circulate possession.

Barcelona coach believes Zubimendi has what it takes to settle into Barça’s style of play very quickly, thus making the desired option for Xavi.

However, signing Zubimendi could be a tricky affair. Real Sociedad have refused to lower their demand of €60 million, which is the valuation of the player’s release clause. Although such an amount would not usually be a problem for Barcelona, it is under the current circumstances, with the club needing to reduce their salary mass in order to avoid FFP sanctions.

Therefore, Barcelona’s pursuit of Zubimendi would heavily rely on Sociedad’s willingness to listen to Barcelona’s solution and economic plan of paying the €60 million, which could include either a loan deal with an option to buy or payments through instalments.