Barcelona have been in contact with Xavi for weeks about taking over the manager's role at the Camp Nou, according to a report.

Ronald Koeman was sacked by the Catalan club last night following a 1-0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano that left Barca ninth in La Liga.

Former midfielder Xavi, currently in charge of Qatari side Al Sadd, was quickly installed as the favourite to succeed the Dutchman, with Roberto Martinez and Antonio Conte among the other names linked.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona first made contact with Xavi "weeks ago", and will continue talks with Al Sadd today.

The journalist adds that the 41-year-old wants the job, but that an announcement is not expected any time soon. Sergi Barjuan, the current Barcelona B head coach, will take interim charge if needed.

Xavi spent 24 years at Barca as a player, joining the club at the age of 11 and going on to make over 700 appearances, winning eight league titles and four Champions League crowns.