Newly-promoted LaLiga side Girona have slammed champions Barcelona for approaching Oriol Romeu over a potential transfer.
Romeu came through the academy at Barca before moving to the Premier League to join Chelsea in 2011. He struggled for opportunities at Stamford Bridge, but did find success in the English top-flight during a seven-year spell with Southampton.
That spell came to an end last summer when the midfielder opted to join Girona, who at the time were playing in the Segunda Division. In his only campaign so far at the Estadi Montilivi, Romeu helped his new side to promotion back to LaLiga via the play-offs.
His performances appear to have attracted the eye of Barca, who stormed to the Spanish title last season. Since ending their four-year wait for a championship though, boss Xavi has overseen an overhaul of his squad.
Veterans Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba have departed, alongside Samuel Umtiti and Trincao. Ilkay Gundogan has been signed on a free transfer from Manchester City, but Xavi is still looking to boost his options in defensive midfield.
That has led him to Romeu, but their approach for the 31-year-old has infuriated Girona. The Blanquivermells released a statement to SPORT, in which they slammed Barca for their attempted move.
"We know that Xavi has called our player and Oriol Romeu is not free, he has a contract with Girona until 2025, so we would say that this cannot be done ," Girona's statement, released on Saturday evening, read.
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"It would be good if the communication would take place between clubs, especially taking into account the good relationship between the two sides."
It is stated that Girona are in no mood to sell Romeu, though are aware that he would be interested in returning to Barca. The Catalan giants are being forced to turn to more cut-price options as they bid to replace Busquets as their financial crisis continues to bite.
Xavi has become personally involved in the search as it is a position of critical importance. But Barca have not approached Girona, instead taking the unusual route of going to the former Southampton star personally.
The Barca boss has previously insisted that it is "essential" that he is able to adequately replace Busquets, if they are to continue to compete for trophies in the upcoming season.
"Whoever is more complete, whoever is the best pivot to replace Busquets. We depend on ‘fair play’ and the economic situation. The profile must be a very determined player, who wins duels and is intelligent. The natural substitute for Busi," Xavi said.
"You have to find that piece. If we want to compete well next year, it’s essential. Busi has been fundamental to getting the Super Cup and La Liga. We have to find a very important player to replace Busquets.”
