Barcelona 'struggling to afford Roberto De Zerbi buyout clause'
It has been over a month since current Blaugrana boss Xavi revealed that he intended to leave at the end of the season, announcing his decision after January's 5-3 loss to Villarreal.
The reigning La Liga champions have strung together a pleasing set of results since, taking 13 points from the last 15 on offer in the Spanish top tier and playing out a 1-1 draw with Napoli in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.
As a result of their turnaround in form, president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco have both opened the door to Xavi staying on beyond the summer, but the Catalan coach has reiterated that he plans to leave regardless.
Brighton boss De Zerbi — formerly of Shakhtar Donetsk and Sassuolo — is believed to be a top candidate to replace Xavi, having guided the Seagulls to a sixth-placed finish in the 2022-23 Premier League and a place in the Europa League.
The 44-year-old's contract at the Amex Stadium does not expire until the summer of 2026, though, and his terms are also believed to include an exit clause worth €15m (£12.9m).
According to Sport, Barcelona — whose financial concerns have restricted them for a number of years now — are currently in no position to pay the entirety of De Zerbi's option, which Brighton have no intention of negotiating on.
As well as their economic situation, Brighton supposedly believe that paying an eight-figure sum to hire De Zerbi would pile the pressure on his shoulders, a situation which they hope to avoid putting their new head coach in.
Nevertheless, De Zerbi is said to be interested in managing the
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