Manager urges his club to hand midfielder a new contract after links with Arsenal

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Xavi has given his verdict on Barcelona star Sergi Roberto, amid speculation that Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal want to sign him.

The Barcelona head coach has said that he has told his club bosses what to do regarding the future of Roberto, who can operate as a midfielder or as a full-back.

So, what has Xavi said about Arsenal target Sergi Roberto? Let’s take a look.

Xavi comments on Arsenal target Sergi Roberto

Well, Arsenal have been linked with Barcelona star Sergi Roberto, who is out of contract at the Spanish club in the summer of 2024. The defending La Liga champions have the option to extend it by a further year.

Sport reported in late December 2023 that Arsenal want to sign Roberto. Gunners manager Mikel Arteta is a fan.

Barcelona head coach Xavi has spoken about the future of the midfielder, saying that he has already told his bosses at the club to hand him a new deal.

BarcaBlaugranas quotes Xavi as saying: “I would recommend to the club that they renew Sergi Roberto. They already know it. He is important, he can play in many positions. 

“You have to explain very little to him. He knows what Barça is, what it represents. A highly criticised footballer, but he always plays at a high level. I’m delighted with him.”

My View: Sergi Roberto unlikely to join Arsenal

In my opinion, Arsenal are unlikely to be able to sign Sergi Roberto on a free transfer in the summer transfer window. I think that the Spanish player will sign a new contract with Barcelona.

Roberto has been on the books of Barcelona since 2006. The 31-year-old came through the youth system at Barcelona and has been part of the first team for years.

He has won the La Liga title seven times, the Copa del Rey on six occasions, and the UEFA Champions League twice with Barca, who have been linked with Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Giovani Lo Celso. Barcelona is his ‘home’.

The 31-year-old has made four starts and two substitute appearances in La Liga for Barcelona this season. He has scored three goals and given one assist in those games.

Roberto has also made one start and two substitute appearances in the UEFA Champions League.

I think that Barcelona will offer Roberto a new contract, just as head coach Xavi wants him to, and that he will accept the offer.