Barcelona director of football spotted in Manchester on scouting mission as Xavi jokes they’re chasing Cantona transfer
NEW Barcelona boss Xavi has jokingly revealed how he wants to bring Eric Cantona to the Nou Camp.
The club legend, 41, is preparing his side to face Villarreal this weekend and faced the media on Friday.
That came after reports that Barcelona director Mateu Alemany had been spotted in Manchester.
Xavi was informed of the article and then promptly asked if he would like any player from the city?
The Spaniard instantly replied tongue-in-cheekily with: “Cantona.”
He was, of course, talking about Manchester United’s iconic French former No7 Eric Cantona.
The now 55-year-old actor achieved cult status at Old Trafford between 1992 and 1997 and helped them to win four Premier League titles before retiring at the age of just 30.
Whether or not he could still do a job for much-troubled Barcelona is another question, but they have been linked with several other names that are based in Manchester over recent weeks.
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The Catalans would love to sign Raheem Sterling from City.
The England ace is still showing no signs of penning a new deal with 18 months left on his current contract — and admitted the prospect of playing abroad does appeal.
Barca were even hoping to get him on loan in January, with financial woes meaning they cannot make any transfers until their situation improves, but that looks set to be rejected by the Prem champions.
And a fresh report has now linked Barcelona with a swoop for United attacker Jesse Lingard – who becomes a free agent in June.
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