As Barcelona prepare to face Villarreal, Xavi has been speaking about Ousmane Dembele, with Newcastle keen on bringing him to the Premier League.
What’s the story?
Well, it has been said that Newcastle have already sent the £135.5m forward a contract offer, with his current deal at the Camp Nou expiring next month.
Arsenal and Tottenham are also said to be interested in signing Dembele, who has done well to turn things around at Barcelona under Xavi.
As recently as January, the France international was told to “leave immediately” by Mateu Alemany – Director of Football at Barcelona – as he continued to stall over a new contract.
However, two goals and 13 assists in 30 games under Xavi has changed things, and now, the Spaniard wants the 25-year-old to stay.
However, the 42-year-old conceded that tomorrow’s clash with Villarreal could be Dembele’s final game for Barcelona.
As quoted by Fabrizio Romano, Xavi said: “It could be, as for other players too, but he could also renew. He’s a decisive player. I really like him, I’m optimistic. I hope Ousmane will continue here at Barça.”
Now, that will surely interest Eddie Howe, who is presumably paying close attention to Dembele’s situation in Catalonia.
Newcastle would be dangerous with Ousmane Dembele
If Howe is successful in his attempt to bring Dembele to St James’ Park, Newcastle would become a frightening prospect – specifically for opposition full-backs.
The Frenchman is a very tricky, skilful winger, who plays in a similar style to Allan Saint-Maximin.
With those two on the flanks, and Callum Wilson in the centre, Newcastle would cause opponents all sorts of problems, to say the least.
It would also be a huge statement from the Magpies, as Dembele looked set to become a potential Ballon d’Or winner when he sealed his £135.5m move to Barcelona in 2017.
If Howe can sign the winger and get him back to the level he was, the Toon Army will have a new hero to worship next season.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
