Barcelona release Arsenal transfer target after 14 YEARS as he becomes first casualty following Xavi’s exit

SERGI ROBERTO is set to become the first "victim" of Xavi's Barcelona exit, according to reports in Spain.

The news comes amid rumours that Arsenal have been tracking the player.

Roberto's Barca contract runs out on June 30 and he was set to see it extended under Xavi's leadership.

But with Xavi confirming he will leave at the end of the season, Barcelona's hierarchy have decided the player is surplus to requirements, according to .

Xavi was an advocate of Roberto, even making him captain at the start of this season, but announced he will be stepping down due to the pressures of being Barcelona coach.

Announcing his decision, Xavi said: "I’ve thought about the club and above all the players.

"I have the feeling that I am doing the right thing, that I am acting with common sense.

"I think the club needs a change of dynamics, the dynamic is very negative."

Last summer, the Barcelona youth product agreed to take a hefty pay cut in order to help the club with their financial issues.

The salary decrease left him as one of the lowest-paid players in the squad despite being at Barcelona for 14 years.

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Injuries have led to Roberto playing a bit-part role for Barcelona this season, making just six appearances in LaLiga.

The midfielder is currently missing with a muscular issue, and expected to be out until mid-February.

Roberto's favoured position is as a midfielder, but he can also operate at full-back.

That versatility has seen Arsenal maintain an interest in a potential free transfer for Roberto, given they are looking for a cover in their defence.

Arsenal have also been left consistently short in the midfield this season following a string of injuries to Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny.