Barca targets Man City's Silva as replacement for Xavi

Barcelona is reportedly looking to buy ManchesterCity star David Silva as a replacement for their veteran star midfielder Xavi.

Barcelona is also planning to turn Silva into their midfield playmaker.

According to the Mirror, senior officials from the Catalan club have compiled a list of candidates to take over Xavi and 50 million pounds-rated Silva is their unanimous choice.

Barca see Silva, 28, as the ideal man to slot into midfield at the Nou Camp if and when Xavi moves on, the report added. 

Xavi, who is a product of Barcelona's La Masia youth setup, has spent his whole career with the Catalan club.

Last month, Xavi hinted that he might consider leaving Barcelona as it is difficult to finish one's career at the Spanish club. Xavi is contracted to Barcelona until 2016, the report added.

Image: David Silva of Manchester City

Photograph: Michael Regan/Getty Images