Barcelona ‘hold back on their plan to sign Ruben Neves as a replacement for Sergio Busquets’

Barcelona has reservations about their plan to recruit Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves in January, according to reports.

The Catalan club would like to loan the Portuguese star in January, with a mandatory €50m clause to buy at the end of the season.

The plan was part of a long-term strategy to replace 34-year-old defensive midfielder Sergio Busquets, but the Spanish giants are now believed to be holding back the deal.

Manager Xavi is concerned the midfielder will not fit into his tactical system, according to reports

While the move would be financially feasible, Xavi fears the Wolves star would not suit his on-court tactical set-up, according to the Spanish outlet Sport.

The manager is not convinced that Neves has the right profile to replace Busquets at the foot of midfield.

The Barcelona and Spain legend is the club’s second longest serving active player, behind Gerard Pique, having played at the Nou Camp for nearly 14 years.

Neves to be deployed as a long-term replacement for Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets

The Catalan club would be more interested in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi

Busquets’ defensive skills, who once complemented Xavi along with compatriot Andres Iniesta, have helped Barcelona to eight LaLiga titles and three Champions League trophies since 2008.

Martin Zubimendi is reportedly the preferred option to replace Busquets in the defensive midfield, but the Spaniard has recently signed a new contract with Real Sociedad and is no longer considered a realistic possibility.

Xavi’s side are third in their Champions League group ahead of Wednesday’s must-win clash against Bayern Munich at the Camp Nou.