Arda Turan: 'I can't replace Xavi Hernandez'

Barcelona new boy Arda Turan has dismissed the notion of filling the midfield void left by club legend Xavi Hernandez, insisting that he is a different type of player.

The Turkey international joined the Catalans for a reported £24m from Atletico Madrid this week.

Xavi left Camp Nou this summer to join Qatari side Al Sadd, having won 23 major trophies for the Blaugrana in a distinguished spell that spawned over 700 appearances.

"Nobody can take Xavi's place because he's one of a kind in the world of football," the 28-year-old midfielder told reporters.

"He'll always be a symbol of Barca. He is an idol for everyone, not just the club. I'm a different type of player.

"I have come to do great things, but nobody can be Xavi. I want to win over the fans with my own game."

Turan is ineligible to make his Barcelona debut until January due to the club's transfer embargo.