Xavi demands four new signings in January at Barcelona, including Bundesliga striker

Gio Reyna-Erling Haaland-Borussia Dortmund

The Spaniard is closing in on becoming the manager of Barcelona.

Barcelona are reportedly close to announcing Xavi as their new manager, reports famed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The former midfielder will be the successor to Ronald Koeman, who was sacked by Barca due to a slow start to the season.

According to a report from El Nacional via Give Me Sport, Xavi has requested president Joan Laporta to sign four players in the January window.

On the top of the list is Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland who is watched by a host of Europe’s top clubs.

Xavi sees the Norwegian as the talismanic figure in the post-Lionel Messi era but Barca’s financial troubles make him a long shot.

Paul Pogba is another marquee player Xavi wants to bring to the Nou Camp, with the French man’s contract at Manchester United expiring at the end of this season.

PSG and Real Madrid are eyeing a free transfer for the 28-year-old, with the Catalan giants joining the race now. 

Like Haaland, Pogba shares the same agent in Mino Raiola, with whom Laporta has a great relationship. But it remains to be seen whether Barca can afford Pogba’s high wages amid their crisis.

Dani Olmo and Jules Kounde are next up on the list, with the former one looking like a convenient option for the Blaugrana.

Olmo is said to be open to returning to the Nou Camp from RB Leipzig, as Barca even enquired about his availability in the last summer window.

Sevilla centre-back Kounde seems a far-fetched option due to the competition from Chelsea and his expensive price tag. In addition, Raheem Sterling and Kingsley Coman are rumoured to be on Xavi’s wishlist.