Hansi Flick targeting world-class player to be his first signing at Barcelona as interest confirmed

Hansi Flick has reportedly identified his first transfer target as Barcelona manager.

On Friday afternoon, it was officially confirmed that Spain legend Xavi Hernandez will not be continuing as the manager of Barcelona.

A statement from the club read: “Today Friday, FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has informed Xavi Hernández that he will not be continuing as first team coach in the 2024-25 season.

“FC Barcelona wishes to thank Xavi for his work as coach, as well as for his inimitable career as a player and as team captain and wishes him every future success in the world. Xavi Hernández will be coaching the team for the last time in Sunday's game away to Sevilla.”

On the back of the news, it was claimed by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano that former Bayern Munich and Germany boss Flick will take over from Xavi at the Catalan club.

He wrote on social media: “Hansi Flick becomes new Barcelona head coach, confirmed and here we go! The agreement has been completed, worked and is now approved by his agent Pini Zahavi on a two-year deal.

“Contract until 2026. Understand Flick will bring two German assistants as part of his staff.”

With Flick expected to become the new Barcelona boss, one of his former players has been linked with a move to Spain.

According to Relevo journalist Matteo Moretto, via Barca Worldwide on social media, who wrote: “Kimmich is a player that Flick really likes. INTEREST is confirmed.”

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When asked about a potential move to Barcelona last month, Kimmich said: “At the moment I’m not thinking about this. As I already said, I will speak to Bayern first. But of course, Barcelona and Real Madrid are amazing clubs with an amazing history.

“I want to talk to Bayern. And when I do that, I won’t go out and talk to the press about it. I’m only focused on the two games against Real Madrid.”

He added: “For me, the most important thing is the club, not just the coach. But of course it’s also important to know what the coach thinks about you and the team. Other people in the club worry about choosing the coach.”