Transfer Centre

Xavi 'gives green light to Barcelona signing 30-year-old midfielder'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 13 May 2024

Barcelona head coach Xavi reportedly gives the green light for the Catalan giants to press ahead with the addition of a 30-year-old midfielder.

Xavi has reportedly instructed the Barcelona hierarchy to press ahead with the signing of an experienced midfielder this summer.

The Catalan giants have endured a mixed campaign during 2023-24, one which will end trophyless on the back of Real Madrid winning La Liga and exiting the Champions League at the quarter-final stage.

Despite that disappointment, Barcelona were recently handed a boost when Xavi reversed his decision to resign from his role as head coach at the end of the season.

That was on the back of a prolonged unbeaten run in Spain's top flight, yet Barcelona have since lost two of their last three fixtures, suffering defeat to Real and Girona respectively.

Although Barcelona are still favourites to finish as runners-up, there is a desire to make changes to the senior ranks for 2024-25.

Real Betis' Guido Rodriguez pictured on August 20, 2023 © Reuters

Xavi keen to add midfielder to squad

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Xavi has given the green light for Barcelona officials to try to wrap up the addition of Guido Rodriguez.

The 30-year-old has continued to star for Real Betis this season, even though injury has restricted him to 21 starts and two substitute outings in the top flight.

However, the Argentina international's contract will expire at the end of June, naturally leading to interest in his signature from numerous different teams.

Nevertheless, it appears that Barcelona are in the box-seat, sporting director Deco having been informed that Rodriguez could excel at Camp Nou.

Romano adds that a two-year contract, plus the option of a third, is on the table for Rodriguez, although he is yet to agree to those terms.

Real Betis' Guido Rodriguez in action with FC Barcelona's Memphis Depay on May 7, 2022 © Reuters

Betis expected to lose key player

Rodriguez has been a mainstay in Real Betis' team for a number of seasons, making 128 starts and 10 substitute outings in La Liga since his transfer in 2020.

From the perspective of Barcelona, they would be getting an established player on a free transfer - ideal circumstances when they are currently attempting to ease their financial issues.

A recent report claimed that as many as 17 players could be sold or allowed to leave during the summer, something that would inevitably lead to some replacements being sought.

While Oriol Romeu has made 17 starts and 17 substitute outings for Barcelona this season, they are keen to cash in on the 32-year-old, with Rodriguez seemingly identified as the ideal alternative.