The 35-year-old, who has been with the Blaugrana since 1991 in the club’s youth system, was close to a move to the USA at the start of this season, yet revealed new coach Luis Enrique convinced him to prolong his stay in Spain.

Yet with his aging legs allowing him only a bit-part role at the Camp Nou this season, speculation of a move away have bene heightened after Cadena Ser radio reported that a meeting was held in Barcelona involving the player, his father, his agent and a representative from Manchester City, the parent club of MLS newcomers New York City.

The radio station reports that a tentative agreement for a move to America in 2016 was reached.

This backs claims from New York City sporting director Claudio Reyna who confirmed the American club’s interest in the former Spanish international.

"We are very interested in 'franchise' players, like Xavi," Reyna told Catalan TV staion TV3. “The door is not closed. We will see. For sure we will need to bring in a third 'franchise' player in the summer."

New York City already have Spanish striker David Villa on their books, as well as English midfielder Frank Lampard.

Xavi, who has scored 81 goals in 702 appearances for Barcelona, will likely only make the move next year, as the club will not want to risk letting go of too many players due to the transfer ban they are currently serving.