Barcelona boss Xavi has called Martin Zubimendi "a great player" amid the ongoing speculation surrounding the Real Sociedad midfielder's future.
The Spaniard was heavily linked with a move away from his Basque club over the summer, but he ultimately signed a new contract with Imanol Alguacil's side, which is due to run until June 2027.
The deal has not halted the speculation surrounding an exit, though, with Barcelona, in addition to Manchester United and Arsenal, said to be interested in signing him this summer.
Zubimendi is expected to be in the Real Sociedad XI that starts Wednesday's Copa del Rey quarter-final with Barcelona at Camp Nou.
Xavi was asked about the 23-year-old during his pre-match press conference, with the Catalan outfit thought to be targeting him as a replacement for Sergio Busquets, who could leave on a free transfer this summer.
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"He is more physical and faster than Busi, who is better technically. But it's not just Zubimendi, it's all the players in midfield. We have a great team visiting us. Zubimendi is a great player," said the Barcelona boss.
Ahead of Sunday's La Liga clash with Getafe, Xavi was also asked about the Spanish midfielder.
"I don't like to talk about players under contract with other teams. We will try to be better than Real Sociedad in the Copa, but we are now focused on tomorrow's (Sunday's) game. We've lost four points at home and we can't lose any more," he told reporters.
Barcelona have not brought any new players to the club during the January window, but Memphis Depay has departed, and there have been claims that there could be an addition or two before the end of the market.
However, Xavi has said that he is expecting "little movement" at Camp Nou over the next week.
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"I expect little movement. I've said that from day one. Especially in terms of new signings, I'm calm. I'm not ruling anything out, but for the moment there is no news," he said.
Xavi also ruled out a departure for Franck Kessie, who has been heavily linked with an exit over the last couple of weeks due to his difficulties when it comes to securing regular action.
"At no time have I considered his departure. He's a player that I like a lot because he gives us alternatives in the game. He was especially good against Ceuta," added the 42-year-old.
Barcelona have another two matches before the end of the month, following this clash with a La Liga game against Girona, and they will then open February away to Real Betis.
Matt Law
