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Arsenal now eyeing move for Barcelona star Xavi Espart

By on October 22, 2026

Arsenal are keeping tabs on Barcelona fullback Xavi Espart ahead of a potential swoop, according to CaughtOffside.

Barcelona’s La Masia academy has earned a reputation for unearthing some of football’s brightest prospects and developing them into world-class talents.

The likes of Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Pedri, Gerard Martin and Pau Cubarsi are excelling with the first team at the moment, while others like Marc Cucurella, Xavi Simons, Alejandro Grimaldo, Abde Ezzalzouli and Oscar Mingueza are other active players making immense impacts for their respective top clubs.

The latest name from the club’s academy making waves is Espart, whose goal in the 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday saw him surpass Sergio Ramos to become the youngest Spanish defender ever to score in the UEFA Champions League at 19 years and 152 days.

The goal also marked the Spaniard’s fourth goal contribution in eight games for Hansi Flick, and his displays have caught the eye of several clubs, including Arsenal.

This is according to CaughtOffside, which claims that the North Londoners are keeping close tabs on Espart ahead of a potential swoop.

‘Incredible’ fullback

The report adds that Mikel Arteta likes dynamic defenders that can seamlessly slot into midfield, and the 19-year-old’s versatility, passing qualities and positional awareness make him a perfect fit.

It appears the Gunners are already stepping up efforts over the transfer, with CaughtOffside reporting that the Premier League champions have compiled comprehensive scouting data on Espart after watching him live this season.

Although the Spaniard recently extended his contract with Barcelona until 2030 with a release clause in excess of £83m, the Blaugrana could demand offers between £33-41m plus add-ons to consider holding talks amid interest from Arsenal, according to the report.

However, Mikel Arteta’s side will face competition from North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, as well as Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund and Juventus, in the race for the two-cap Spanish U21 international, CaughtOffside adds.

Despite being a natural right back, he was deployed at left back in the 5-0 win over Elche last month, prompting head coach Hansi Flick to describe him as ‘incredible’.

Looking at Espart’s overall statistics this season, he has completed 88.6% of his passes and averages 6.10 won duels, 5.52 recoveries and 3.19 tackles per game in LaLiga, so paying £41m for a player of his quality would be a shrewd piece of business.