Barcelona shortlist options for Busquets successor including Premier League playmaker

Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets has been highly speculated to leave next summer when his contract runs out.

Aged 35, the captain of Blaugrana and the Spanish national team may well be at the ebb of his career, but he continues to be the spine of the midfield for both club and country.

In a career spanning more than a decade, no player has ever come close to displacing Busquets, who was instrumental in La Roja’s World Cup triumph in 2010 and European Championship in 2012. Adding to it, a countless number of trophies with Barca.

According to Marca, Xavi is keen on two names as the potential heir for Busquets: Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ playmaker Ruben Neves.

Xavi appears to be a huge admirer of Zubimendi, who is homegrown and has progressed through the ranks at La Real.

The 23-year-old has become a pivotal player in Immanol Alguacil’s side, who have been punching above their weight in recent years – finishing in European spots for three consecutive seasons.

Zubimendi also recently put on an impressive display in a memorable win over Manchester United at Old Trafford in Europa League.

The Spaniard’s contract with La Real runs until 2025, and he also reportedly holds a release clause worth €60 million.

Unlike Zubimendi, Barca are expected to face tough competition for Neves, who has grown into one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

Arsenal, Manchester United and even Barca tried to recruit him in the summer transfer window, but Wolves’ high valuation put them off the pursuit.

The Portuguese international’s contract expires in the summer of 2024. If he opts against an extension, Barca might have a great chance to sign him for a cut-price fee next summer.

It looks clear that Xavi wants to usher in a new era, having already ousted seasoned campaigners Gerard Pique and Jordi Alba this season. They, alongside Busquets, are expected to leave Camp Nou at the end of the next season.