Reuters

Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez is set to leave his childhood team to join Qatar-based outfit Al-Arabi SC, reports in Spain claim.

The Spanish international has been the chief exponent of the 'tiki-taka' style with which both the national team and Barcelona have conquered the world in recent years.

However, the 34-year-old experienced a dramatic loss of form last season and is ready to move somewhere else - while the Catalans are ready to let him go for free.

Barcelona's new manager Luis Enrique is embarking on a huge clear-out after a season without silverware.

Cesc Fabregas has already joined Chelsea, Victor Valdes has decided to move somewhere else while Puyol has hanged his boots – and now Xavi looks set to be the next club legend to depart this summer.

According to Al Arabi manager Dan Petrescu Xavi has already signed a pre-contract with the Qatari club.

"Xavi has signed a pre-contract with us. Other clubs were interested in him, but our offer has convinced him. I've spoken to him personally on the phone," Petrescu said.

Related

The Spaniard is expected to sign a two-year deal with the option of a further two seasons with a salary between eight and €10m per year.

Meanwhile, Fabregas recently hinted Xavi's departure during an interview with Marca, saying that the Barcelona captain was set to join Carles Puyol on his way out of the Nou Camp.

"He (Xavi) and Puyol want to step out of the limelight, spend more time with their families and enjoy a less demanding lifestyle," said Fabregas

Xavi has scored 81 goals in 723 matches over 16 seasons at the Nou Camp – winning three Champions League Cups, seven La Liga titles and two Copa del Rey trophies.