Newcastle and Chelsea are “admirers” of Barcelona head coach Xavi, according to HITC reporter Graeme Bailey.

The Spaniard has announced that he will leave the Camp Nou at the end of the season. There is some speculation that he could be persuaded to stay but, if his departure from Barca is confirmed, Bailey claims a move to England is a possibility:

Barcelona feel that Xavi could be persuaded to stay this summer but if he does leave, he could be offered the chance of a move to England.

HTIC understands Chelsea and Newcastle’s owners are admirers of the Spanish legend.@HITCfootball https://t.co/5EaDdSy2cH

— Graeme Bailey (@GraemeBailey) March 25, 2024

Current Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is under pressure after a poor season which has seen his side underperform in all competitions.

The Magpies sit 10th in the Premier League table, while they have been knocked out of the FA Cup, Carabao and Champions League (at the group stages). A change could, therefore, be considered at the end of the campaign.

Xavi’s philosophy would align with Newcastle’s

The 44-year-old is known for blooding young talent, having given debuts to the likes of Fermin, Marc Guiu, Hector Fort, Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal. All in all, he has handed out first-team appearances to 16 academy players during his time in charge of Barcelona.

With Newcastle having recruited several youngsters over the past couple of years, Xavi could be the ideal man to manage their development.

A new sporting director is the club’s first priority

While Howe’s future will come under scrutiny, the main focus for the Magpies will be replacing Dan Ashworth, who has been put on gardening leave.

Chelsea’s former chief of international scouting Scott McLachlan has been mentioned as a potential candidate but, until a new sporting director is appointed, no decision will be made on the manager.

You can watch the documentary – Newcastle United: The Road Back To Europe on Shots! TV here