Xavi backs Barcelona pursuit of Neymar, Lautaro Martinez

Club legend Xavi has admitted that he would like Barcelona to complete deals for Neymar and Lautaro Martinez.

Despite having been strongly linked with the Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan attackers, it remains to be seen whether Barcelona will be able to push ahead with their transfer plans due to the coronavirus pandemic.

However, Xavi, who has been tipped to become a future manager of the Catalan giants, has acknowledged that both players would improve the first-team squad.

Quizzed on Neymar, the Spaniard told Post United: "Football-wise I have no doubts. I've been with him in the dressing room and he seems to be a great person. He was a professional and made a difference. On the pitch he's in the top five."

On Martinez, Xavi added: "I like him. Who doesn't? He stands out, gives depth and finds space where there's very little. Barcelona are right to take an interest."

Neymar has just over two years left on his PSG contract, while Martinez is said to have a £92m release clause in his deal at San Siro.