Barcelona boss Xavi has described Liverpool and Chelsea target Gavi as ‘brutal’ as he hailed the teenager for his performances this season. Gavi was promoted into the senior set-up by Ronald Koeman at the start of the campaign and has been one of Barca’s best players this term.
Barcelona boss Xavi makes 'brutal' comment about Liverpool and Chelsea target (Image: Getty Images)
And heading into derby day, Xavi took the opportunity to praise the youngster, describing him as ‘brutal’.
“The situations where he steals balls, which are many, when he puts pressure after losses, it’s brutal,” he said, using a Spanish expression that indicates something is extraordinary.
“He turns very well, he knows how to retain shape, he knows how to be the third man, he knows when he has to come inside.
“At just 17 years old his performance is spectacular. It’s wonderful to train him.”
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Liverpool are one of the clubs eyeing a move for Gavi (Image: Express Sport)
Barca’s well-documented financial troubles could make a deal difficult to do, with his suitors able to offer far more.
But Sport claim that the La Liga giants are ‘remaining calm’ about Gavi’s situation, though they are aware they need to move fast to secure his future at the Nou Camp.
Gavi himself is said to be keen to stay in Catalonia despite the depth of interest in him, which could work in Barca’s favour.
And with Xavi continuing to wax lyrical about him, the Spanish star is certain to only increase his desire to stay.