Football Corner

Manchester United are ready to make a £20 million bid for Barcelona midfielder Xavi after it was confirmed that Owen Hargreaves will be out for the rest of the season with a knee injury. United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has set his sights on a new central midfield player to replace Hargreaves and Xavi is now understood to be his number one target.

The Spanish international is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world and Ferguson is ready to offer him the chance to move to Old Trafford. The 28-year old has previously been linked with a move to the Premier League with Chelsea said to be interested.

Xavi has been with the La Liga giants for over 16 years, progressing through the youth ranks to become one of the clubs most prized assets. He has made 430 appearances for the first team, scoring 43 goals in the process. Barca boss Pep Guardiola is keen to hold onto Xavi, however he may be tempted to accept the £20 million on offer for the player.

Although I would love to see Xavi come to the Premier League, I just can't see it. He is an exceptional talent who would no doubt make United a better team but he is Barca through and through and I fully expect him to stay at the Camp Nou. With both Scholes and Giggs likely to retire in the next year or so, I think it is vital Ferguson adds another midfielder to the ranks and although Xavi would be a great addition, I feel he must look elsewhere

Source : Daily Star