Raheem Sterling has reportedly told Manchester City that he wants to leave the club in January, according to reports.
The Englishman got on the scoresheet as the Blues cruised to yet another victory with a bruising performance against Rafael Benitez's Everton.
But more of the discussion has been surrounding his future after he struggled to find his way in Pep Guardiola's plans with the form of Phil Foden and Gabriel Jesus plus the addition of Jack Grealish.
With 18 months remaining on his contract at the Etihad, reports suggest that he has made his intentions clear over a possible move to the Nou Camp.
Spanish outlet Sport claim that Sterling has made his Barcelona intentions clear and that the opportunity to play regular first-team football would be too good to turn down.
Xavi took charge of Barca at the start of November after Ronald Koeman was sacked. The legendary midfielder got off to a flying start as boss and is reportedly looking to bolster the cash-strapped Catalonians in the January transfer window.
Mitigating factors could halt the loan move for the 28-year-old as Barcelona would be unable to pay his reported £300,000-per-week contract due to the financial restrictions currently in place in La Liga.
Meanwhile, Manchester City's hunt for a striker is reportedly heating up.
It has been no secret throughout this season of their need for an out-and-out forward and with their failure to secure the Harry Kane deal, rotation of the front three has been required.
AC Milan are said to be stepping up their efforts to tie down Rafael Leao following links with the Blues.
Calciomercato says Stefano Pioli's side are 'clinging' on to his services with City 'in the lead' for his signature.
The Italian side have highlighted the Brazilian as a key figure and an important one in their push for silverware becoming indispensable thanks to his goals and assist contributions.
Reports say that the contract talks could see Leao earn €4m at the San Siro seeing him extend to 2026.
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