‘Xavi is my idol’ – Stanislav Lobotka refuses to rule out Barcelona switch | OneFootball

The latest comments on the part of Napoli star Stanislav Lobotka have piqued attentions at La Liga giants Barcelona this week.

As much comes after the Slovakian hinted that he is very much open to the prospect of making the move to Catalunya’s capital in the summer.

The name of midfielder Lobotka has of course taken its place front and centre in the Spanish media headlines over recent weeks.

This comes after Barcelona headmaster Xavi’s praise for the 29-year-old was swiftly followed by his agent confirming talks with the Blaugrana brass, over the possibility of a transfer.

Speaking to the Slovak media, as cited by TuttoNapoli, Branislav Jarusek confirmed:

“Lobotka would like to play for a club that fights to win the Champions League. He is nearly 30 so if he gets an irrefutable offer, we’ll discuss it with the club.”

“We spoke about it with Deco. Barcelona would sign him, but many things must happen. Stanislav sent me a screenshot of what Xavi said about him. I sent him one showing the many times we spoke about him, because he [Xavi] often asks me about Lobotka.”

So, what are the thoughts of Lobotka himself when it comes to the possibility of linking up with the La Liga heavyweights?

If his latest comments are anything to go by, then, as alluded to above, the former Celta Vigo man certainly doesn’t appear to be opposed to making the move back to Spain…

“I am thinking about Napoli, as we have a very important game to play on Saturday,” Lobotka began, during an interview with TV RTVS, as cited by TuttomercatoWeb. “Of course, it is very pleasing to have my childhood idol, Xavi, praising the way I play,” he continued.

“That gives me the energy to keep going and continue working to improve myself. We’ll see what happens in the summer.”

Conor Laird | GSFN