Thursday, 10th July, 2014
Xavi could follow his former Barcelona team-mate David Villa to New York City FC ahead of the new season.
The veteran midfielder has been linked with a move out of Barcelona this summer and a host of Qatar-based clubs have been touted as his next destination.
Al Arabi manager Dan Petrescu claimed earlier last month that Xavi has agreed a pre-contract with the club and Michael Laudrup is also interested in taking the midfielder to Lekhwiya.
However, it is believed that New York City FC are leading the race to sign the Barcelona midfielder before the start of the next season, according to Radio Catalunya.
New York City FC are the latest franchise to join the MLS and are a joint venture between English champions Manchester City and American baseball team the New York Yankees.
relatedNewsStory
Xavi’s former Barcelona team-mate Villa has already joined the New York team and there are reports that England midfielder Frank Lampard has also been lined up by the club.
The 34-year-old has won two European Championships, one World Cup with Spain and three Champions League crowns with Barcelona, in addition to numerous other trophies.
Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.
