Barcelona 'to hold talks with Memphis Depay over future'

When the forward moved to Camp Nou on a two-year contract last summer, it was to work under compatriot and former national team boss Ronald Koeman.

That soon changed as Xavi replaced the Dutchman in the dugout, but Depay was still able to finish the season with 12 goals and two assists from his 28 appearances in La Liga.

However, Barcelona have been constantly linked with fresh additions since the change in leadership, resulting in the 28-year-old seemingly being deemed available for transfer.

Nevertheless, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Depay will not depart the Catalan giants unless an exit makes sense for the next phase of his career.

The attacker is said to only have a desire to sign for "an important club", rather than take on a spell elsewhere purely to gain regular first-team football.

With Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski featuring in Xavi's attack next campaign, the former Lyon star faces the prospect of being well down the pecking order, potentially down to third choice in some positions.

However, Romano adds that Xavi will continue 'to count on Depay' if he insists on seeing out the remaining year on his deal at the Spanish giants.

As it stands, more talks are scheduled to take place this week as club officials attempt to determine how they will raise funds to boost their financial position.

Should Depay eventually insist on leaving Barcelona, he will not be short of options with numerous high-profile clubs having already been linked with his signature.

A Premier League return with Tottenham Hotspur is seemingly a possibility with the North London outfit said to be prepared to pay in the region of £14.5m.

Newcastle United and Everton have also been credited with an interest in the versatile frontman, although they are unable to offer European football for 2022-23.

Sevilla may also become an option if Barcelona decide to pursue their interest in Jules Kounde, who possesses a release clause in the region of £69m.

Including Depay in any proposal would reduce the financial outlay at a time when Barcelona are still trying to negotiate the exit of Frenkie de Jong.