Former Barcelona midfielder Xavi has told Fox Latin America (translated by goal.com) that he believes Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will give “real consideration” into signing Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere in the summer.
The World Cup winner says that Wilshere’s performance for Arsenal against Barcelona in 2011 was when the England international first came to Guardiola’s attention:
“I know Pep has always had a lot of respect for Wilshere – he impressed so many of the Barcelona team when we played Arsenal in 2011. He impressed me a lot that night, I know he also did Pep and it will be a player that he would have been following ever since.”
Xavi believes that injuries have prevented Wilshere from becoming a world class midfielder but now he has recovered his fitness during his season long loan spell at Bournemouth, he will be a player that Guardiola may consider signing in the summer.
“At the moment he seems to be doing well with his fitness – and if there is a chance to sign him in the summer – I am sure Pep will give it real consideration.”
Wilshere has yet to open contract talks with the Gunners over a new deal to keep the 25 year old at the Emirates. At the end of the season, he will have just 12 months left on his current deal and Guardiola may see it as a perfect time to try and make a move for the midfielder.
