Transfer bombshell as Barcelona ‘blew two chances’ to sign Newcastle United superstar

Spanish legend Xavi Hernandez recommended Barcelona to sign Alexander Isak last summer, according to reports.

A turbulent few months at the Nou Camp has resulted in Xavi announcing his exit, sensationally U-turning before ultimately being sacked by the Barca hierarchy. The La Liga giants finished second and trophyless - forcing the board to part ways with the iconic figure.

Much of the friction also centred around Robert Lewandowski’s future. The 35-year-old - earning a reported £300,000 per week - has two years remaining on his contract and Xavi hoped to move him on for a more mobile striker.

However, the Catalans’ hierarchy disagreed and Xavi’s demands were reportedly a key reason behind his sacking. Spanish outlet RAC1 claim the World Cup winner had outlined Newcastle United talisman Isak as his ideal replacement last summer.

That suggestion came after the Swede netted 10 goals in an injury-stricken debut Premier League season. Since then, the Magpies’ club-record signing has gone on to net a further 25 times to become one of Europe’s top strikers.

The Daily Mail reported yesterday that Chelsea have enquired about Isak - but Newcastle would likely demand a fee above £150million. As for Barcelona, they also blew the chance to sign the 24-year-old before he joined the Magpies.

Isak opened up about his love for Newcastle when grilled by Swedish media earlier this year. He said: “Yeah, of course, I want to be here in the future. I came here for the project, I absolutely love playing here, I really feel at home. I want to finish this season in a good way for me and the team. I love playing here.

“I don’t want to entertain these types of questions and rumours. It’s not my position. I love playing, we have important games, there’s no focus there (on my future), I just want to do good for the team.”