Xavi has shared some interesting comments about Ousmane Dembele in his pre-match press conference, with Arsenal and Tottenham said to be keen.
What’s the story?
Well, it was Ian McGarry – speaking on The Transfer Window Podcast – who claimed that Arsenal want to bring Dembele to the Premier League.
Elsewhere, it was Tutto Mercato Web who revealed that Tottenham are interested in the 24-year-old, who cost Barcelona £135.5m.
Now, Xavi has discussed Dembele’s future, with the 27-cap France international’s contract set to expire in June.
As quoted by Fabrizio Romano, the Spaniard said: “The message is clear. Ousmane Dembele has to sign a new contract or we find a way to sell him in January. No other way. I also wonder about agent is talking the way he is and Dembele, on the other hand, telling me he wants to stay. I can’t understand.”
In our view, that doesn’t sound convincing whatsoever.
By the sounds of it, Dembele is telling Barcelona one thing, while his agent, Moussa Sissoko – no, not that one – is saying something different.
Whatever the truth is, Arsenal and Tottenham should definitely be sending a few messages to Barcelona after hearing those unconvincing comments.
Arsenal and Tottenham could get a bargain
Admittedly, Dembele has had many problems at the Camp Nou, including injury problems as well as disciplinary matters.
In fact, the Frenchman was the first player Xavi fined after replacing Ronald Koeman, because he arrived late for training (Marca).
Nevertheless, it’s not every day that a £135.5m forward finds himself nearing free agency with just six months left on his contract.
Before joining Barcelona, Dembele was among the best forwards on the planet at Borussia Dortmund.
The former Rennes winger scored ten goals and provided 21 assists in the 2016/17 season before moving to Spain.
As things stand, Barcelona can either sell Dembele for a heavily reduced fee this month, or risk losing him for nothing in the summer.
Either way, someone – potentially Arsenal or Tottenham – are going to get themselves a bargain.
Keep an eye on this saga, as Xavi demands a decision from Dembele.
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