Ferran Torres has joked he would be willing to “kidnap” rumoured Liverpool target Ousmane Dembele in order to keep him at Barcelona.
Dembele has become an important player under new boss Xavi, after seeing parts of his career stall due to injury. Now restored to the starting line up at Barcelona , the France international has registered five assists across his last three league games and looks to be a rejuvenated figure for the Catalan club.
With his contract at Camp Nou set to expire this summer, Liverpool were one of several clubs touted to make a move for the 24-year-old in January. However, his teammate Ferran Torres has jokingly admitted what he would do to make sure Dembele remains at the club.
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“I would kidnap him in Barcelona,” the former Manchester City winger said, as reported by Goal . “It's a good club, one of the best in the world.
“But there are things that are none of our business. It's his decision. Whatever he decides, I wish him all the best.”
Xavi has been vocal about his desire to extend Dembele’s time at the club , who initially joined Barcelona from Borussia Dortmund in 2017 for a reported £135.5m fee. Having recently announced a new contract for defender Ronald Araujo, it has been widely suggested that the club have also reopened talks with Dembele’s representatives.
“I hope he can stay with us," Xavi said. “I have already said it and I have no problem repeating it again. He can be the best in the world in his position. The club is working for the present and the future.
“Ousmane is an important footballer and I hope he decides to stay. I'd sign his new contract immediately. He's a great professional.”