A delegation from FC Barcelona is currently in Qatar to negotiate for Xavi, ex-player of the Catalan club and currently coach of Al Sadd with a contract until 2023.
The 41-year-old Spaniard must succeed Ronald Koeman at Barça. He said on Wednesday that he was “looking forward to returning home” despite the desire of Al Sadd general manager Turki al-Ali to keep him in Qatar.
At AFP news agency, a source close to the talks confirms that the two teams are close to reaching an agreement. “Negotiations are in the final stages,” the source told AFP.
“Today the freedom clause in his contract was discussed. Al Sadd would withdraw the clause and in return Barcelona would agree to a friendly against the Qatari club in Doha. Al Sadd would also be allowed to participate in the annual Gamper Trophy in Barcelona.”
Talks will resume on Friday.
