Barcelona boss Xavi has reportedly been impressed by Memphis Depay in recent weeks, with the Netherlands international now starting the team's last two La Liga matches.
The 28-year-old was allegedly told by the Catalan outfit that he was surplus to requirements over the summer.
At one stage, Juventus were believed to have been close to signing him, only for a switch to Turin to break down at the final moment, while interest from Manchester United and Chelsea did not lead to an official bid.
Memphis was not involved in any of Barcelona's opening four matches of the La Liga campaign, but he appeared off the bench in the Champions League against Viktoria Plzen on September 7 and has since started the league matches against Cadiz and Elche.
The Dutchman scored his first goal of the season against Elche on Saturday and said after the match that he was delighted to have been able to take his chance to impress.
© Reuters
"Our mentality is good and I'm happy for that. It's very important to keep winning. Even if we lost the Munich match, this spirit has to continue. Today we had lots of chances and we should have scored more," Memphis told reporters.
"I'm happy to score. When opportunities come to me, I try to contribute to the team. I know what I can offer, and I show that in training. I'm happy to be given a chance today. I'm not playing much this season, but I'll keep on working in the same way.
"I need more match rhythm to give my best for the team. I know I have the ability. I'm happy to go to the national team now, then come back with the desire to win titles in this club."
The forward's contract at Camp Nou is due to expire at the end of June, and it is allegedly still unlikely that he will be offered a new deal by the Catalan club.
© Reuters
However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Memphis's has made a huge impression on Xavi with his performances in training, which have seen him recently earn starts in the league.
The report claims that the attacker's 'commitment and application' have pleased the head coach, while his teammates have also been impressed by his attitude this term.
The Dutchman, who moved to Camp Nou on a free transfer last year, scored 13 times and contributed two assists in 38 appearances for his Catalan club last term.
As it stands, Memphis would be able to hold talks with foreign clubs at the start of 2023 over a potential move on a free transfer next summer.
Matt Law
