Barcelona defender Xavi Espart is attracting interest from Liverpool and Arsenal, with the 19-year-old potentially in line for several Premier League offers in 2027.
The La Masia graduate has emerged in Hansi Flick’s first-team plans after making a strong impression at the beginning of the 2026/17 campaign. Flick has used Espart as cover on both sides of the defence, giving him opportunities to compete with Joao Cancelo and Jules Kounde.
Barcelona have responded to his progress by agreeing a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2030. The new deal has also increased the player’s release clause to €100M.
Despite those terms, interest from England is expected to remain if Espart falls down the defensive pecking order at Barcelona. His prospects could also be influenced by Liverpool’s decision over another player from the Catalan club, Ronald Araujo.
Liverpool signed Araujo on a season-long loan before the new campaign, and the Uruguay defender has impressed while operating at right-back. His performances have given the club another option in defence and could affect whether Liverpool pursue a permanent agreement for him.
Liverpool can retain Araujo on Merseyside for around €55M. If they decide not to complete that transfer, their interest in Espart could remain part of the club’s longer-term plans, while Arsenal are also reported to be monitoring the teenager.
Espart’s ability to cover both full-back positions has helped him earn the confidence of Flick, even though he remains at an early stage of his senior career. His improved standing at Barcelona, together with the €100M clause attached to his new contract, means any potential Premier League move would require a significant investment.
For now, Barcelona have secured Espart’s future through 2030, but the reported attention from Liverpool and Arsenal leaves open the possibility of renewed transfer interest in 2027.
