Marco Verratti would be ideal for Barcelona, says Xavi. (Getty Images)

Marco Verratti would be the ‘ideal signing’ for Barcelona, according to Xavi.

Four weeks ago, the Italy international delivered a masterclass in midfield against Barcelona as Paris Saint-Germain coasted to a 4-0 win in the Champions League.

Reports in Spain have claimed that Barcelona sounded out Verratti last summer, while Chelsea have also been heavily linked with the 24-year-old, who is valued at £70 million.

‘Verratti would be the ideal signing for Barcelona in my opinion,’ Xavi told Le Parisien.

Xavi says he would love to see Verratti at Barcelona. (AFP/Getty Images)

‘I think Verratti is a bit like me. He always goes in search of the ball quite deep on the pitch and then takes it forward and dictates play.

‘Verratti is small just like me and he never loses the ball. His technique is incredible.

‘He is a player I would love to see at Barcelona.’

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