Xavi won't send Dembele to the stands but still prefers selling him (reliability: 4 stars)

Despite Barcelona telling Ousmane Dembele he will not play anymore this season, Xavi does not plan on sending the winger to the stands, the reliable Javi Miguel of Diario AS says.

The coach's preferred option would be selling the player in January.

First, it would lighten the wage bill and allow Barca to sign someone else. And second, Dembele is expected to get a hostile reception whenever playing at Camp Nou.

As per latest reports, Ousmane has rejected the final extension offer from the Catalans. The Frenchman considers himself a world-class player and wants to be paid as such: €200m for five seasons plus a sign-on bonus of €40m.

This term so far, the 24-year-old has made 11 appearances for Barca, scoring a goal and providing two assists.