Barcelona manager Xavi has insisted that Memphis Depay still has an important part to play in his plans moving forward amid ongoing links connecting him with a return to Manchester United.
United, who are desperate to add their pool of attacking options in this month's transfer window, are being heavily linked with the prospect of re-signing the Netherlands international on loan. The Reds have just one out-and-out striker on their books following Cristiano Ronaldo's departure in late-November, in the form of Anthony Martial, and are keen to improve their attacking output this month.
Depay, following fellow countryman Cody Gakpo's recent move to Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven, has been earmarked by many as a suitable candidate to beef up the Reds' forward options on a short-term basis for the rest of the season. The 28-year-old, who left Old Trafford in January 2017, has made just three appearances for Barcelona this season because of a thigh injury.
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But having returned from the World Cup in Qatar, at which he scored one goal for the Netherlands, fighting fit, Xavi wants to include the former Lyon man in his plans, insisting that he does not want to lose anyone from his squad in this month's window.
"I don't want anyone to leave," said Xavi. "I'm delighted with the squad.
"It seems there won't be a market for us. I'm happy with Depay. His attitude is good and he will be important for us.
"He has the ability to make a difference. He'll have minutes. Like all of them."
Depay, who scored just seven goals in 53 appearances during his time at Old Trafford, joined Barcelona in June 2021, signing on a free transfer. He was a regular fixture in his debut campaign at the Camp Nou last season, scoring 13 goals in 38 appearances in all competitions.
He has scored once so far this season, finding the back of the net in a 3-0 win over Elche back in September. He was included in the matchday squad for the first time since when Barcelona drew 1-1 with Espanyol on New Year's Eve, but failed to make it off the bench.
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