Ruben Neves set to replace Busquets at Barcelona despite Xavi concerns

Suraj Radia

• 6 Jan 2023 14:46 CST
• 2 min read

Barcelona are likely to make a move for Ruben Neves despite Xavi’s doubts over the Wolves captain’s suitability to replace Sergio Busquets in midfield.

Neves has been a long-term target for Barca and was close to joining them last summer but the club could not afford Wolves’ €50 million asking price and prioritised other arrivals in the meantime.

The Catalan outfit are looking to revamp their midfield as Sergio Busquets is likely to depart when his contract expires in the summer, with speculation heavily linking him with a move to MLS side Inter Miami.

TRICKS: Barcelona repeat proven tactics to attract Neves

However, Spanish outlet SPORT claims that Xavi is desperate for Busquets to stay at the club for at least another six months, although the Barca captain would have to take a wage cut in order to do so.

The report suggests that Barca will be unable to afford Xavi’s ideal replacement in Martin Zubimendi, who will not be allowed to leave Real Sociedad for less than his €60m release clause.

As a result, Barca are exploring cheaper options and, while Xavi would like Busquets to extend his stay for another season, the club may opt to move for Neves.

Xavi’s Neves concerns

Neves had previously turned down offers from other teams in order to hold out for a transfer to Barca but the La Liga side stalled on pushing forward with a move as Xavi does not see the Portuguese international as a natural replacement for Busquets.

SPORT writes that Xavi sees Neves as more of an interior or double pivot player compared to the lone holding defensive stability that Busquets brings.

CONCERNS: Would Ruben Neves really help Barcelona?

The Barca boss believes there may be better options on the market but Neves could be the most affordable option for the club as he enters the final 18 months of his contract, with Wolves thought to be willing to accept a player in exchange such as Franck Kessie or Nico.

Barca president Joan Laporta spoke recently that the club may have to continue cutting costs, with the club’s wage bill continuing to balloon after spending more than €200m on players during the summer.