Boca Juniors vice-president Juan Roman Riquelme has no doubts Alan Varela can make it at Barcelona.

The Boca midfielder is interesting Barca as they seek a replacement for wantaway captain Sergi Busquets.

Sport says coach Xavi has been in contact with former Barca teammate Riquelme, who has recommended Varela's signing.

The young midfielder came through the Barca school in Buenos Aries and has long been educated in the Blaugrana methods.

Benfica and Ajax have also been in contact with Boca for Varela.

The Argentine can leave Boca next month for €20m.