Xavi can shatter dream Arsenal transfer plan after Barcelona U-turn

Arsenal could be handed a transfer problem after Barcelona manager Xavi decided against stepping down at the end of the season. The iconic Spanish midfielder revealed in January that he would be stepping down from his boss at the La Liga giants, despite having one year remaining on his contract at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium.

The Gunners face a hectic end to the Premier League season as the enthralling title race looks set to go down to the wire. Mikel Arteta's side are looking to bounce back from last year's disappointment, and after Liverpool's 2-0 defeat at Everton, they sit at the summit with just four games to play, with Manchester City having two in hand.

This summer could very well be a busy one at the Emirates Stadium, with the focus on continuing their work under the Spaniard. Arsenal suffered a disappointing Champions League quarter-final exit after Joshua Kimmich's decisive second-leg header in their first season back in the elite European competition.

One of the players mooted with a move is Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad, with the Gunners frequently linked over the last two transfer windows after the technical prowess of the 25-year-old Spain international was said to have caught the eye of Arteta. However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Xavi 'loves' the midfielder, and the reversal of his decision could scupper Arsenal's efforts to acquire the Sociedad man.

Thomas Partey has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium, but Arsenal need strength in their midfield department after frequent changes in the position this season.

"I love Barça and I always try to do what is in the club's best interests," Xavi said on his decision. "In these three months [since announcing my departure], I have noticed the support from the president [Joan Laporta], the board of directors and [sporting director] Deco.

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"The support of the players and the fans - who have encouraged me on the street and filled the stadium - has also been important in deciding to reverse my decision. We probably won't win any trophies this season, but this is a winning project.

"We have to continue with it and we have to keep working hard. I feel we have the capacity, the energy and the motivation to keep going.

"In January, I thought a change was needed, but I think this is the best decision now. I think it brings stability and I am happy, above all, for the backing I have received from the club.

"Many people have made me see that this project is not finished. I am staying to keep winning. We will correct the small details that have cost us this year and we believe next season we will be closer to our objectives."