Barcelona: Laporta offers major update on Xavi future

Speculations about Xavi’s possible departure from Barca have intensified in recent weeks.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed the club are planning to give Xavi a new long-term deal.

Xavi returned to Camp Nou after the Catalans sacked Ronald Koeman in late 2021.

The 43-year-old finished the last campaign without a trophy but led the Catalans to the Super Cup title this season. Xavi’s side are also leading the La Liga table, sitting nine points clear of Real Madrid.

Barca’s inconsistent performances in European tournaments, however, have led to speculations over Xavi’s future in recent weeks.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Laporta refutes claims that the club have doubts about extending Xavi’s contract.

“I think we’ve to extend Xavi Hernández’s contract, he deserves a new long term deal,” the Barcelona president said (via Fabrizio Romano).

“Xavi says that he wants to win La Liga before new deal, but I’m already thinking of that.”

Sergio Busquets’ contract will expire in June, with the midfielder reportedly having suitors in MLS. However, Laporta says Barca want to keep the veteran midfielder for another year.

“Sergio Busquets is crucial for us, Xavi wants him to stay for one more year,” he added.

“We will send him a proposal valid until 2024. Sergio has to decide with his family. It’s about the country also, he has very big proposals.”