While Barcelona might have made real history last season as they claimed a first La Liga crown since 2019, Xavi’s side have struggled to hit a similar level this time around.
Opening the New Year sat seven points adrift of both Girona and bitter historic rivals Real Madrid, it has been reported that there is some mounting pressure on Xavi’s shoulders.
However, despite still dealing with some public financial issues behind the scenes in Catalonia, it has been suggested that Barca are keen on being active during January’s transfer window.
Although the reigning La Liga champions might not have much financial pull during this month’s window, it has been reported that Xavi is eyeing up a handful of Premier League superstars.
Douglas Luiz – Aston Villa
With Aston Villa in the midst of a record-breaking Premier League purple patch this season, Douglas Luiz has played a crucial role in Unai Emery’s success in the Midlands.
Already notching five top-flight strikes and a further three assists in his 18 Premier League appearances, Luiz has continued to receive a string of plaudits and has quickly transformed into one of England’s elite midfield stars.
With Emery publicly stating that he has no interest in letting the 25-year-old leave Villa Park this month, it has been suggested that the former Arsenal boss values his midfield talisman in the region of £100million.
Although there might have been continued speculation that Arsenal are desperate to complete a blockbuster swoop for the one-time Manchester City starlet, Barcelona have reportedly placed Luiz at the top of their midfield wishlist.
While Barca might face a real financial struggle in order to meet Villa’s valuation, it has been reported that Xavi’s camp are plotting a ‘massive investment’.
Giovani Lo Celso – Tottenham
Really impressing during his two-year stint with former Champions League semi-finalists Villarreal, it was expected that Giovani Lo Celso could be handed a fresh start by new Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou.
Despite not making a single Premier League start until the end of November, the Argentina international has done an eye-catching job of filling James Maddison’s creative void.
Opening December with back-to-back strikes against Manchester City and Aston Villa, the 27-year-old has made it clear that he is now seeking regular first-team action.
However, set to enter the final 12 months of his current deal in north London at this season, it has been heavily speculated that Spurs are keen on cashing in on the one-time PSG starlet.
Previously linked with a move for Lo Celso last summer, it appears that Xavi is hoping to reignite Barcelona’s interest and feels that they could potentially push through an initial loan deal.
Amadou Onana – Everton
While Barcelona might still be dealing with some public financial issues over the past few years, Everton have found themselves in an almost identical position.
Hit with an infamous 10-point deduction back in November after being found to have breached the Premier League’s financial rules, it has been suggested that Sean Dyche’s men must still slash their wage bill.
Still looking over their shoulder at a potential relegation scrap, there has been continued speculation that the Toffees could already be tempted to cash in on former Lille starlet Amadou Onana.
While Everton might have splashed £33million on the Belgium international, just 17 months ago, Onana has struggled to find much stability this season.
However, already earning nine senior caps with the European giants since making his debut last year, it has been reported that Barcelona are currently monitoring Onana’s situation and look set to be weighing up a potential January swoop.
