Gavi's replacement? Barcelona target Tottenham midfielder Giovani Lo Celso but two big obstacles may stop Xavi from getting his man

Barcelona boss Xavi admires the Argentine's style of play and is reportedly interested in signing the midfielder in the January transfer window. The former Spain international believes Lo Celso's style of play will perfectly complement star forward Robert Lewandowski. The Catalan giants, though, may not be able to sign Lo Celso in the upcoming transfer window due to two major obstacles.

According to SPORT, Tottenham are not willing to part ways with their star player, especially after his impressive performances against Aston Villa and Manchester City where he scored a goal each. Also, James Maddison's absence due to an injury is another reason why the north London club may not agree to let the Argentine leave.

The reigning Spanish champions do not have enough salary space to accommodate one more signing after registering Vitor Roque who is set to join the team much earlier than what was initially planned. The club can register Roque as 80 per cent of Gavi's salary - who is out with a long-term injury - can be used to register the Brazilian for the next six months.

With the arrival of Maddison from Leicester in the summer, Lo Celso saw his game time reduced at Tottenham. But Ange Postecoglou has been using the the 27-year-old regularly of late after Maddison's injury. The player has appeared in seven matches across all competitions and has scored twice.

The World Cup winner will be next seen in action on Sunday as Postecoglou's men take on Newcastle in a crucial Premier League encounter on Sunday.