Barca's shortlist revealed: Man Utd and Arsenal stars wanted by Xavi

Robin Bairner

Updated: 28 Sept 2023 12:19 BST
4 min read

Barcelona’s transfer shortlist has been revealed by Mundo Deportivo, with stars from Manchester United and Arsenal among the players that the Catalan side are most attentive to.

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Barca’s financial problems mean that they are forced to target opportunistic signings, and according to the publication, they will be keeping a close eye on the developments regarding the futures of no fewer than six different players as the January window approaches.

Xavi’s side are following players who have expiring contracts or are in dispute with their club, opening the door to potential cut-price or loan transfers.

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Who are Barcelona’s transfer targets?

Man Utd’s Jadon Sancho is among the players that is being most closely followed by Barcelona, with the England winger having fallen out with Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag to such an extent that he has been forced to train alone.

All the indications are that Man Utd would be happy for Sancho to leave in January, and with few other clubs apparently willing to gamble on the 23-year-old, the door could be open for Barca.

Similarly, Antony Martial could become a target. The France international has fallen out of form at Old Trafford and has fallen down the pecking order after a series of injury problems. United might not be happy to let him go presently due to a lack of centre-forward options, but equally Ten Hag is actively seeking to recruit and his situation could change.

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© ProShots - Jadon Sancho: wanted by Barcelona

At Arsenal, meanwhile, the sluggish start experienced by Kai Havertz has led to rumours of a possible deal. There is a belief that he still has a strong career ahead of him if it does not work out with the Gunners.

At the other end of the spectrum, Jorginho is out of contract at the end of the season at the Emirates Stadium and could depart. FootballTransfers’ exclusively revealed that the Italy international remains in manager Mikel Arteta’s plans.

In defence, Matthijs de Ligt has lost his place at Bayern Munich and is a player who is targeted, while at the other end of the field, Athletic Club’s out-of-contract Nico Williams is also on the radar, albeit competition is fierce for the young Spain international.