Barcelona legend Xavi has spoken of his admiration for PSG midfielder Marco Verratti.

The Italian has been linked with Barca as they seek a replacement for Xavi, now with Qatar's Al Sadd.

"Verratti is a player of an extraordinary level. He is similar to footballers of FC Barcelona in the middle of the field. A very high level.

"He is showing this at Paris Saint Germain and is having a fantastic season.

"There are few better players than Verratti in midfield," said Xavi.