Mikel Arteta on Barcelona’s shortlist to replace Xavi

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is on Barcelona’s shortlist to replace Xavi Hernandez at the end of the season, according to reputed journalist Gerard Romero.

The Spanish tactician joined the Gunners in December 2019 and he has established himself as one of the top managers in the Premier League over the past few years.

The Gunners came on the cusp of lifting the top-flight title last term and they are once again challenging for the league with only a five-point gap to leaders Liverpool.

The club are currently planning talks over a new long-term deal, but Romero has claimed that the 41-year-old will be on the Blaugrana shortlist to replace Xavi.

Julian Nagelsmann, Jurgen Klopp and other managers represented by super-agent Jorge Mendes are also likely to be considered for the vacancy during the summer.

Arsenal unlikely to part ways with Arteta

Arteta has played a big part in transforming the club’s fortunes over the past few years. He has built a young and dynamic squad, who are now competing at the top.

He has yet to achieve major success in terms of a league title, but the Gunners are moving on the right path and will want to continue with him for the long-term.

His current deal expires at the end of the 2024/25 season, and we won’t be surprised if the club look to commit him to a new contract during the summer of 2024.

Arsenal still have plenty to play for this term despite being ousted from the Cup competitions.

The Gunners are currently five points adrift of the top in the league while they are into the round of 16 of the Champions League where they face Portuguese outfit Porto.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com