Barcelona youngster faces strict punishment if he does not renew contract soon – report

SPORT has reported that Barcelona have communicated to Ilaix Moriba their intentions of sending the player to Juvenil A in case he does not renew his contract. This comes as the latest development in a chain of events over the past few weeks that saw the negotiations reach a roadblock.

Since receiving his first call up to the first team dynamics in January, the 18-year-old has been a vital cog in Ronald Koeman’s plans. He quickly climbed up the ranks ahead of the experienced Miralem Pjanic and fan-favourite Riqui Puig to become the first choice midfielder to introduce as a regular substitute.

Since the 4-0 victory over Granada, the central midfielder has racked up 18 appearances for the Blaugranas with four starts. Needless to say, in addition to his two assists and a goal, Ilaix has been solid and reliable.

A dead-end was reached in contract negotiations earlier this month when the La Masia graduate’s representatives demanded a higher salary for the midfielder.

Understandably, the economically handicapped board of Barcelona had to decline the proposal and has chosen to freeze Ilaix out of first-team dynamics until a renewal is agreed upon.

In 2019, Ilaix was tied down to the club in a contract worth €1 million for three years. It was the highest salary awarded to talent in the youth academy, clearly displaying the hopes and investment Barcelona have put into his development.

It has also been reported that Real Madrid are watching the Spaniard’s contract situation with keen eyes, hoping to snatch him from the Barcelona youth ranks.

Though it would be unfortunate for the club to lose a player of his calibre, Barcelona’s delicate financial situation is a bigger worry. Laporta has been dealing rough with the youngster’s party, and he understandably does not intend to give in to Ilaix Moriba.