Barcelona Eyes Brighton Coach De Zerbi as Xavi's Replacement

Barcelona is reportedly eyeing Brighton head coach Roberto De Zerbi as their number one choice to replace the departing Xavi. Xavi, a Barcelona legend, will step down as manager at the end of the season, leaving the club in need of a new boss. However, securing De Zerbi may not be an easy task. Talks have already taken place between Barca president Joan Laporta, sporting director Deco, and De Zerbi, who has garnered praise during his tenure at Brighton. The main obstacle is Brighton's €10m (£8.5m) exit clause for De Zerbi, which could pose a challenge for financially struggling Barcelona. The club has spent less than €50m (£42.7m) on transfers in the last two windows. Despite the potential difficulties, De Zerbi has expressed his delight at the interest from top clubs, but remains focused on his work at Brighton. Under De Zerbi's guidance, Brighton achieved a historic sixth-placed finish in the Premier League last season, securing European qualification for the first time in the club's history.