Xavi sends message to Gavi after Chelsea approach for Barcelona star

The 18-year-old has quickly established himself as a key part of Barcelona’s side which currently sits 10 points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. He has also made a swift impact at international level with 19 caps for Spain, including four appearances at the World Cup last year.

However, Barcelona face the prospect of losing Gavi on a free transfer following a contract registration dispute with La Liga.

Gavi agreed a new long-term contract, which includes a €1 billion (£883m) release clause, in September but La Liga’s attempt to block the deal has been successful as the league claims that Barca are unable to afford the midfielder’s €8m (£7.1m)-a-year salary.

Until Barcelona succeed with their appeal, Gavi will be on his Juvenil A contract, which means he will be available to sign as a free agent until his registration is given the green light.

That has alerted both Liverpool and Manchester City, but earlier this week reports in Spain claimed that Chelsea had opened talks to sign Gavi this summer.

However, Xavi is adamant that Gavi’s long-term future should be at Barcelona.

‘I don’t think Gavi would be happy at another club,’ Xavi said when asked about the midfielder’s potential exit this summer.

‘He has everything here. He is 18 years old. He’s a key player of our team.

‘For me, he’s a footballer that is outstanding.

‘I don’t know what he’ll decide but I think his future is here at the club.’

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