"She's going through a very difficult time" - Singer Carlos Vives opens up on Shakira's state of mind after breaking up with Barcelona defender Gerard Pique 

Shakira is going through a difficult time following her breakup with Barcelona and Spain defender Gerard Pique, according to Colombian singer Carlos Vives.

The "Waka Waka" famed singer and Pique announced their split after 12 years together, during which time they had two children, Milan and Sasha.

Vives, who collaborated with Shakira on the song 'La Bicicleta', was asked by Cadena 100 music radio station what the singer's current state of mind is. He replied (per The News International):

"She's going through a very difficult time. She has to be sad; I've been through that too. I definitely felt sad; it's a very difficult time and well, when you have such a beautiful family."

Roberto Garcia, the ex-boyfriend of one of Shakira's sisters, believes the 45-year-old pop star split with the Barcelona star due to monetary reasons. Garcia told EsDiario (as quoted in the previously referenced 'The News International' article):

"According to what a person very close to them has told me, there has been an economic problem between the two."

He added:

“Supposedly, Piqué would have asked Shakira for money for an investment issue and the singer's family has refused to give it to him. They don't mix their money and they keep the family economy at 50%."

Shakira and Pique may also be heading for a legal battle for custody of their two children. As per the latest reports, the Spaniard was not keen on letting Shakira take them on a two-month vacation to Miami.

Shakira was also reportedly aware of the Barcelona defender's infidelity as the couple were apparently in an open relationship.

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Barcelona defender Gerard Pique spotted with Chelsea bag at Wimbledon

According to The Mail, the 35-year-old central defender was spotted with a Chelsea merchandise bag supporting compatriot Rafael Nadal at the Wimbledon tennis championships. However, it was later reported that he had brought Chelsea's apparel for his children, who are apparent Blues fans.

The report also claims that Xavi has told Pique that he is surplus to requirements at the club despite having two years left on his contract. Barcelona desperately need to reduce their wage bill in order to help their deepening financial crisis while also being able to bring in new players this summer.

With Chelsea also needing defensive recruitment after the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, Pique's signing cannot be ruled out. Despite numerous injury problems during the last campaign, the 2010 FIFA World Cup winner still made 40 appearances across competitions.

Xavi feels that Pique cannot cope with modern football's unrelenting schedule of games. Barcelona expect the 35-year-old to leave the club gracefully this summer. They also expect him to let go of some of the approximate £34 million they owe him.