Barcelona boss Xavi has rejected signing of Premier League midfielder 3 times now: Reports

Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez has reportedly turned down the chance of signing Wolves and Portugal international Ruben Neves for the third time.

Neves is currently being linked with the Catalan giants ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, which is expected to open in a couple of weeks' time.

Barca, on the other hand, have been tipped to add a couple of players to their squad ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.

One area that seems to be a priority for Xavi, is the midfield, as Barcelona are currently on the lookout for veteran Sergio Busquets' replacement.

The 34-year-old Spanish international is currently in the final months of his contract at Camp Nou, and could possibly leave the club this summer.

Meanwhile, one name being tipped as a possible option for Barcelona to sign to strengthen their midfield is Neves. The player himself has previously sounded his desire to make a switch to Camp Nou.

Speaking during an interview in October last year, Neves said,

“Who wouldn’t want to play for Barcelona? If you ask in general, all the players want to play for Barca, one of the best clubs in the world. It’s a privilege for me to be associated with this team."

Despite the player's desire to join Barca, recent reports are indicating that Xavi isn't keen on the move.

The Spanish tactician has reportedly declined the move on three occasions, citing that Neves isn't the right profile he needs in a defensive pivot in midfield.

It's left to be seen whether Xavi will soften his stands on signing the highly-rated Wolves midfielder.

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How has Barcelona link Ruben Neves faired for Wolves this season?

The 26-year-old midfielder is currently one of the best-performing players for The Wanderers during the ongoing 2022-23 football campaign.

Neves has so far scored a combined total of six goals while also registering one assist across all competitions for Wolves this season.

He is also the club's joint-top goal scorer in all competitions thus far, alongside Daniel Podence (6). He has also played the third-highest minutes for Wolves this season, with 3,214 minutes under his belt.