Rumour: Barcelona look to replace Xavi with David Silva

The transfer window may have slammed shut this week but that hasn’t halted the flow of transfer stories, with attention now turning to the big summer moves.

The Mirror believe that one of these could see Manchester City lose one of their prized assets, linking midfielder David Silva with a move to Barcelona. They believe that the Spaniard could return to his homeland as a replacement for Xavi, who may be eased out of the Catalan giant’s side.

Xavi has been a mainstay of the side during the success of recent years, but at 34 is approaching the twilight of his career. The Barcelona hierarchy are believed to view Xavi’s best days as being behind him and it has been siggested that he could be in line for a lucrative final payday in the MLS.

This would leave Barca in need of a replacement, and they see 28 year old Silva as the man to fill his shoes. City would be loath to lose one of their star performers, meaning that a bid from Barcelona could lead to a protracted transfer saga.

Should Silva make the move, then he would be in line for a change in position. He has been deployed in wide areas or as an attacking midfielder for the Citizens, but Barca see him in a deeper role dictating play from the centre.

Silva has created 52 chances this season, more than any other City player.