Barcelona star’s entourage expects a better contract offer from the club after Xavi’s praise

Barcelona have several crucial contract situations to take care of in the coming months.

Both Ronald Araujo and Gavi will be entering the final year of their respective deals at the end of the season. And, the Catalan giants are working hard to ensure that the pair sign extensions at the earliest, given their importance to Xavi Hernandez’s side.

At the same time, another pressing matter on the Blaugrana’s hands is the contract situation of Sergi Roberto. One of the four club captains, the 30-year-old is in the final four months of his contract with Barça. And talks over a new deal are yet to take place.

There had been initial negotiations held at the start of the new campaign. However, soon after that, the versatile defender picked up an injury and is still sidelined. Due to that, discussions over a new deal have taken a complete backseat.

It had led to belief within the Spanish international’s camp that the club are not considering handing him a new contract.

However, manager Xavi Hernandez in a recent interview insisted that he sees Roberto as a key member of the team, stating: “He’s a player who has to continue at the club. I would count on him. He has to be important for me and for the future of the club.”

Following those comments, Roberto’s representatives believe that Barcelona director Mateu Alemany will ‘make a move’ to initiate contract discussions over an extension, according to COPE journalist Victor Navarro.

Even though the Blaugrana might make an offer for the right-back, he will be expected to take a big pay cut, considering that he will not be a regular member of the starting XI.

Roberto made 12 appearances this season, scoring two goals and registering an assist before getting injured. The 30-year-old is expected to return to action in April.