A major update on the plans of the powers that be at La Liga giants Barcelona to replace the outbound Xavi has on Monday been provided.
The info comes courtesy of Diario Sport, and points towards the Barca brass having already essentially decided on their no.1 candidate.
The hope, of course, remains that Xavi will ultimately go on to reverse his decision to depart, to instead see out the remaining year of his contract.
With the Spaniard having been unwavering in his stance that this will not prove the case, however, plans have long been in the works to source his successor.
And, with all other tracks having come up empty, the Blaugrana, it would appear, have decided to look closer to home.
As per Sport, Barca Atlètic boss Rafa Márquez has emerged as the chosen one to take up the first-team reins in the summer.
This comes for a whole host of reasons, not least his familiarity with the club and its young players, excellent work at youth level thus far this season, and strong relationship with both Deco, and Joan Laporta.
All of this ‘helps to produce the unanimity to appoint Márquez in the event that Xavi continues with his idea of leaving’.
Conor Laird | GSFN
