Xavi Hernandez believes Chelsea target Ousmane Dembele could stay at Barcelona
According to Football.London, Xavi Hernandez has suggested that Ousmane Dembele could stay at Barcelona past this season amidst interest from Chelsea regarding a summer transfer. The winger was sensational in the previous fixture as the Catalans beat Athletic Bilbao thumpingly by a 4-0 scoreline.
Dembele will become a free agent in the summer transfer window if a contract extension is not signed with Barcelona in the coming months. While he can sign a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club, the chances of him extending his stay at Catalunya has not been dismissed.
Speaking in the post-match presser, Xavi has revealed that he is not involved in talks between the club and the player. However, he added that things could always change in football if both parties can reach an agreement in the coming months.
“This is not my business. In football, nothing can be ruled out. It is a matter for Dembélé and the club, what I am is happy with him because he is a professional.”
Potential blow?
The Barcelona manager’s admission does make sense, considering how dynamic the dealings in the football world are. That being said, there are no indications just yet that a contract extension could be on the cards ahead of the new campaign.
However, we should look to jump the gun and reach a pre-contract agreement with the Frenchman right now. That would effectively end any chance of Barcelona gaining the upper hand. Landing a player of Dembele’s ability for free could prove to be a masterstroke.
It is understandable if there are concerns with securing the 24-year-old’s services. After all, things have not fared well for the winger at Camp Nou since leaving Borussia Dortmund. However, the forward has showcased under the Blaugrana coach what he is capable of if he stays fit.
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That has been the case in the recent win against Athletic Club as well. The La Liga star was brought on from the bench when the game was still 1-0. The visitors had raised their level and looked to take control over the match. However, the introduction of the attacker alongside Frenkie de Jong eventually turned the tide.
The Blues target set up two goals, while also scoring once in the process as well. His short stint showcases the potential he could still achieve under proper guidance, which could be a great prospect for us to have on a free transfer. Whether we can finalise a move or not remains to be seen in the months to come.