Liverpool are reportedly preparing to trigger the £42m release clause in Gavi's Barcelona contract.
The 17-year-old has established himself as an integral part of Xavi's first team, but he is yet to extend his stay at Camp Nou beyond the end of next season.
Xavi remains optimistic about the club's chances of tying Gavi down to new terms, but Barcelona could be pressured into a sale should the midfield starlet continue to run down the months on his current deal.
Liverpool have been strongly linked with a swoop for Gavi, and El Nacional now reports that the Reds are primed to activate the youngster's £42m release clause to bring him to Anfield.
The report adds that Gavi still intends to come to an agreement over a new Barcelona contract, but Liverpool have informed his entourage of their interest should the cash-strapped Catalans fail to offer him a sufficient deal.
Gavi has scored two goals and set up six more in 38 senior appearances for Barcelona this season and has already earned six caps for the Spain national team.
Ben Knapton
