Barca Midfielder Urged to Ignore Manchester United Rumours

Barcelona's record appearance maker Xavi has advised midfielder Thiago Alcantara to remain at the Nou Camp and rebuff rumours regarding a possible move to Manchester United.

Alcantara made just 14 La Liga starts this season under Tito Vilanova as the Catalans claimed the title ahead of arch rivals Real Madrid, after making 20 the previous season in Pep Guardiola's final campaign in charge.

The 22 year old signed a new contract until 2015 two years ago with a release clause of €90m but with Sergio Busquets and Andres Iniesta remaining first choice in the Barca midfield, the Spanish international appears unlikely to establish himself in the first team anytime soon.

Xavi himself was faced with a similar dilemma during his early days at Barcelona, with first team opportunities few and far between he was offered the opportunity to join United, a move he turned down only to become one of the club's most decorated players in their history.

"I'd advise Thiago to stay patient because he's a player who is bound to be a success at Barca," Xavi said.

"I think he is an extraordinary player. Thiago is not just a player for the future, but he is someone who can make an impact right now as well."

With Paul Scholes having confirmed his retirement for a second time, United are naturally looking for a replacement in midfielder, while the future of Anderson and Darren Fletcher is anything but assured.

The Brazilian Anderson has failed to settle amid a succession of injuries and a substantial loss of form while Fletcher has twice been ruled out for long periods with illness.

Furthermore, upon the arrival of new manager David Moyes, replacing Sir Alex Ferguson after over 26 years in management, United will be keen to make a marquee signing this summer to provide added fanfare to the beginning of his tenure at Old Trafford.