Xavi: Neymar destined to make a difference

The midfielder hinted that Cesc Fabregas will stay at Camp Nou, while insisting that he knows little of reported Real Madrid target Gareth Bale

Xavi has insisted that Neymar is "destined" for greatness at Barcelona following the forward's €57 million move from Santos earlier this summer.

The Brazil international followed up his transfer with a successful Confederations Cup and, a day after the 21-year-old's non-competitive debut in a 2-2 draw with Lechia Gdansk, Xavi stated his belief that the Blaugrana's star signing will thrive alongside the likes of Lionel Messi at Camp Nou.

"Neymar is destined to make the difference," the 33-year-old midfielder told reporters on Wednesday. "He's got lightning pace and scores goals. Having Leo, Neymar and all the other players is sure to help us each improve on an individual level.

"Great players bring out the best in each other. I'm certain Neymar will be better alongside Leo and Leo will be better alongside Neymar.

"We'll try to help him adapt, make him happy and get the best out of him to play like he has done for Brazil."

Although Real Madrid are set to splash a record-smashing €115 million on Tottenham's Gareth Bale, Xavi claimed that he knows little about the Welsh winger.

"I don't know if Bale is worth what they say," the Spain international mused. "I genuinely haven't seen him play for 90 minutes."

On the other hand, he did have something to say about another transfer saga gripping the continent, as he insisted that the links between Cesc Fabregas and Manchester United are nothing more than rumours.

"He's quite relaxed," the Spain international continued. "He's under contract and everything else is speculation. He's working with the group and is up to speed and very motivated.

"They're just rumours. We'll see what happens, but he's relaxed and ready for the coming season with Barcelona."