Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly interested in Barcelona teenager Xavi Espart, who has expressed his willingness to move to the Premier League. The 19-year-old, a product of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, has made 14 appearances this season under coach Hansi Flick.
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Both Arsenal and Liverpool are monitoring Espart, who has a release clause reportedly exceeding €100 million. This comes as Arsenal's Riccardo Calafiori is being pursued by Real Madrid, presenting an opportunity for Arsenal to secure a long-term left-back solution.
Espart’s readiness for a potential transfer was underscored during Tuesday’s Champions League match against PSG, where Barcelona lost 4-2. Despite the defeat, Espart performed well, effectively neutralizing Georgian forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia before being substituted late in the match. He also scored Barcelona’s opening goal, his second of the season, and contributed two assists.
AS praised his performance, noting his impressive debut at right-back, where he showcased both defensive skills and offensive capabilities. While Espart may lack extensive first-team experience, his versatility and emerging talent suggest he could be an asset for any club.
Barcelona, keen to retain such a promising player, currently has Espart under contract until 2030 and would likely reject offers for him. However, they could struggle to prevent a move if a club meets his substantial release clause, which, while broadly agreed to be above €100 million, remains officially undisclosed.
With Barcelona’s recent successes in developing top talents, Espart is emerging as a potential target for Europe’s top clubs. If Arsenal were to lose Calafiori to Real Madrid, targeting Espart would be a logical replacement, as the young player appears physically capable of handling the demands of the Premier League.