New Barcelona coach Tata Martino is ready to back young midfielder Sergi Roberto in the opening weeks of the season.

Martino has been aware of Roberto for two years since spotting him in action for Spain at the U20 World Cup in Colombia.

With Thiago Alcantara sold to Bayern Munich, Martino is happy to promote from within and sees Roberto as the ideal replacement.

The Argentine sees Roberto as perfect cover for Xavi when he needs to withdraw the midfield ace during the coming season.