“He’s now free to join Arsenal, his time is up at Barcelona and I’ve decided to release him with immediate effect”- Barcelona President Joan Laporta has decided to release Arsenal’s target and Arteta’s most wanted Barca player on a free transfer this evening

“He’s now free to join Arsenal, his time is up at Barcelona and I’ve decided to release him with immediate effect”- Barcelona President Joan Laporta has decided to release Arsenal’s target and Arteta’s most wanted Barca player on a free transfer this evening

Arsenal on alert as Barcelona make decision over their star man’s future

Arsenal will be on alert as Barcelona have decided not to renew Sergi Roberto’s contract, according to reports in Spain.

The Gunners have been monitoring the 31-year-old’s situation and reports in Spain last month claimed that the Gunners had made an enquiry for the versatile midfielder.

Barcelona, meanwhile, have allowed Roberto’s contract to run down and his current deal is due to expire at the end of the season.

According to AS, Barcelona have ‘no intention’ of renewing Roberto’s contract and the Spaniard is widely expected to leave Camp Nou with Xavi once the current campaign is over.

The report adds that Xavi made a strong case to Barca’s hierarchy about Roberto’s renewal last summer but the Spanish champions ignored their head coach.

Along with a new captain, Barcelona will also be looking for a new head coach after Xavi announced on Saturday evening that he is leaving Camp Nou at the end of the season.

‘I’ve thought about the club… and above all the players,’ said Xavi.

‘I have the feeling that I am doing the right thing, that I am acting with common sense.

‘I think the club needs a change of dynamics, the dynamic is very negative.’