Gavi offers update on long-term Barcelona future amid Premier League links

Gavi has reaffirmed his commitment to Barcelona amid transfer interest from the Premier League, even claiming he would happily retire with the Catalan giants.

The 20-year-old made a rapid ascent into the Barcelona first team when breaking through during the 2021/22 campaign but an ACL tear in November 2023 significantly hampered his development. Since returning to the field last October, the midfielder has not been a guaranteed starter under Hansi Flick, fuelling exit rumours ahead of the summer transfer window.

Gavi, who has still turned out 29 times in all competitions this season, has been linked with a Premier League move over recent months, with Chelsea particularly eager to sign the precious talent according to one report.

However, having rebuffed talk of leaving Barcelona last month, Gavi once again quashed exit rumours when speaking to the media ahead of the upcoming Champions League quarter-final tie with Borussia Dortmund.

"Of course I would like to retire at Barca, but you never know," said the Spaniard. "It's true that many things can happen in football and there are injuries, but I would sign up for it."

Gavi signed a contract extension with Barcelona in January and his current deal keeps him with the Catalans until 2030. An eye-watering release clause of €1bn was reportedly included when the youngster signed new terms.

The 2022 Kopa Trophy winner was on the scoresheet during Barcelona's 1-1 draw with Real Betis at on Saturday, the result moving La Bluagrana four points clear of La Liga title rivals Real Madrid. However, with their adversaries having suffered a surprise defeat to Valencia earlier in the day, it was an enormous missed opportunity for Flick's men.

Gavi will be desperate to be involved during Wednesday's crucial European encounter and has a strong chance of making the starting lineup given fellow attacking midfielder Dani Olmo is injured at present.

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