Barca are targeting Prem boss to replace Xavi but could be deterred by release clause

BRIGHTON boss Roberto De Zerbi is Barcelona's top choice as their new manager.

But De Zerbi's release clause for the Seagulls – reportedly worth up to £10m – could prove a sticking point for the cash-strapped Catalan club.

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Reports in Spain claim that De Zerbi has the backing of key Barcelona figures to replace Xavi when the player leaves the dugout at the end of this season.

President Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, the former Chelsea and Barcelona star, both want the fiery Italian.

They like the Seagulls' style of football under De Zerbi, his commitment to youth and his personality.

De Zerbi's agents, Edmundo Kabchi and Edoardo Cnajr, met Deco in Barcelona last Wednesday.

Although the talks were originally scheduled to discuss a contract extension for another client, defender Ronald Araujo, it is believed discussions have taken place over De Zerbi's availability.

When he replaced Graham Potter at the Amex in October 2022, he signed a four-year contract.

Brighton and their head coach have been in discussions for a few months about an extension, which could include a bigger release clause.

But even the current amount would be a problem for Barcelona as the club continues to juggle its fragile finances.

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Xavi himself spent millions buying out his contract with Qatari club Al Sadd to take over at Camp Nou.

De Zerbi could try something similar if he was desperate to force a move to Barcelona.

But if the issue cannot be resolved, former Bayern Munich and Germany coach Hansi Flick is the Italian's biggest rival for the job.

Flick is now represented by super agent Pini Zahavi, who has good connections with Barcelona and recently managed to sign Robert Lewandowski from Bayern Munich.