Manchester City are interested in signing Barcelona starlet Gavi, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.
The Lowdown: Gavi’s contract
Having emerged as a regular in the Catalan outfit’s midfield last season, the 18-year-old has become a crucial component in Xavi’s starting XI.
However, the youngster has entered the final year of his contract, which is set to expire at the end of June 2023.
According to 90min, Gavi had agreed to sign a new long-term deal with Barcelona earlier this year, but the club’s financial issues meant this was no longer viable a few months back and frustration is mounting in the player's camp.
The Latest: Bailey’s news
Bailey has now shared an update on Gavi’s contract situation, revealing a number of Premier League teams are eyeing up a move for the Spain international.
Taking to Twitter, the journalist revealed:
“Barcelona confident Gavi contract agreement is close despite fresh transfer interest.
“Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool would all love to take brilliant Spaniard and have made it known.”
The attached report reveals City are one of several teams to hold 'meetings' about a deal.
The Verdict: Huge talent
When looking at the 18-year-old’s underlying stats, it is clear to see why so many English clubs are interested in securing the his signature.
As per FBRef, compared with positional peers across Europe over the past year, Gavi ranks in the 97th percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area, in the 94th percentile for progressive passes received and in the 92nd percentile for dribbles completed, characteristics which may remind Blues fans of a certain David Silva.
Barcelona boss Xavi has been full of praise for the youngster in recent times, hailing his ‘spectacular’ ability and maturity within the game.
He even claimed Gavi is ‘a heart with legs’, as he puts so much intensity and passion into his play.
If the Spaniard fails to sign a new deal with the La Liga giants, Man City should do all they can to bring him to the Etihad.