The news is already making the rounds that Barcelona have opened talks with Al Sadd coach and former Blaugrana captain Xavi Hernandes.

Diario ARA via Sport reports that Xavi is negotiating with his former club about taking charge of the first team next season as it’s claimed talks have been held with the utmost discretion out of respect to current Barca coach Ronald Koeman. However most significantly Barca’s dressing room are allegedly already privy to the developments.

Xavi’s arrival would undoubtedly have the support of the senior leadership group, with the likes of Lionel Messi, Sergi Brusquets and Gerard Pique all having played with their former captain.

Negotiations are said to be dual-pronged when Xavi meets with president Joan Laporta, where the Al Sadd manager is to deliver his ambitions and approach to coaching, alongside what he sees for various departments such as La Masia. This meet-up is expected to be held in the coming days.

On a parallel course, Laporta’s new sporting director, Mateu Alemany, is also speaking with Xavi about putting plans in place for the summer market, together with fore-planning for next season. Discussions between the pair have also included the future of Messi, with the Argentine’s contract due to expire at the end of next month.

Meanwhile, the players are well aware of developments and are awaiting more news to arrive soon.