Xavi identifies Busquets’ successor in exit-linked Barcelona midfielder

Barcelona need to start laying down a succession plan for club captain Sergio Busquets, who is entering the final phase of his career and has just one year left on his contract.

The 33-year-old is already being approached by clubs from the Major League Soccer (MLS) over a possible transfer in 2023 when he will become a free agent.

While Barcelona have their sights set on a move for Ruben Neves as a successor for Busquets next summer, they will need someone to provide cover for the veteran Spanish international in the ongoing campaign, more so considering that he will be involved in the World Cup midway through the season.

And, according to journalist Xavi Lemus, Barça manager Xavi Hernandez has identified Nico Gonzalez as a possible option to cover for and take over from Busquets in the future if the youngster takes his chances.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season but found game-time hard to come by, especially in the second half of the season, with Xavi preferring Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Busquets as his starters with Gavi as a backup.

Nico ended the season with a total of 36 first-team appearances, bagging two goals and assists apiece.

It had led to Nico considering an exit on loan this summer, with Marseille emerging as an option. However, Xavi has assured him that he will get minutes in the upcoming campaign in the pivot role as Busquets’ backup.

Recent reports indicated that the manager was planning to utilise the La Masia graduate in Busquets’ role during the pre-season and if Nico impresses, he could be given an extended rope by Xavi in the upcoming season.