The January transfer window hasn’t re-opened in Europe yet, but there are moves in the works and plenty of gossip swirling around. Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz on rumours, comings, goings and, of course, done deals!
TOP STORY: Xavi eyes Barca rebuild
Xavi Hernandez is looking to rebuild his Barcelona squad in January and beyond, with Sport linking defender Marcos Alonso with a move to Saudi Arabia next summer, and Mundo Deportivo suggesting Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Giovani Lo Celso is on the Barca boss’ wanted list.
Lo Celso has been identified as a player that Xavi feels can provide a vital connection for Robert Lewandowski in attack. Lewandowski, who himself has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, is in need of some assistance behind him following the injury to Gavi.
The problem for the Catalan boss is that the arrival of Vitor Roque in January means there’s little to no room left in the budget for Lo Celso, which limits Xavi to loan signings.
Barca’s slim squad has been stretched in recent weeks, exacerbated by Gavi’s withdrawal, but it’s unlikely Spurs would allow Lo Celso to leave. The 27-year-old has 18 months left on his contract, and he is in good form, scoring two goals in recent weeks against Manchester City and Aston Villa.
Meanwhile, Alonso is set to leave Barcelona in the summer of 2024 rather than in the January transfer window, with Saudi Arabia the most likely destination.
The 32-year-old Spaniard has been linked with a move away from the Blaugrana in January, but he has stated his intention to see out the season. Moreover, if he were to play a certain number of minutes between now and May, he would be entitled to extend his stay for a further season, but that appears unlikely. Alonso has recently been missing in action with a back injury.
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