Xavi makes major Pedri admission amid Liverpool transfer rumours

Xavi has lauded Barcelona midfielder Pedri and suggested the youngster could already be “the best in the world in his position” amid links with a move to Liverpool.

The Barcelona boss heaped praise on the 19-year-old earlier this month after watching him come off the bench to register an assist against Valencia.

Liverpool have been linked with a move for the Spain international in recent months, despite Pedri signing a new contract until 2026 in October - which includes an eye-watering €1bn release clause.

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Though Xavi has made it clear why teams would be interested in the teenager and may still look to take advantage of Barcelona’s ongoing financial situation.

"There is no player in the world with as much talent as Pedri - and he is only 19!" Xavi said, as reported by ESPN.

"He is absolutely superlative. How he turns, his understanding of space and time and the fact he uses both feet. It is amazing to have him in the team and we must take care of him.

"He came on for half an hour and was important. He makes the difference: in how we play, in the box... he wins balls back. We demanded he shoot more and now he has three goals [since coming back from injury].

"Look, he's not a normal player. There are very few like him.