Barcelona captain not ready to take another pay-cut

The veterans at Barcelona have come under scrutiny once again in light of the club’s ongoing financial crisis that has left them crippled in the market.

Barcelona are currently looking to further reduce the cost of the workforce by asking the experienced players to take a salary cut as they are among the highest-paid players in the squad.

Gerard Pique has reportedly promised Xavi Hernandez of his desire to lower his wages and help the club tackle the crisis.

However, as per Marca, another veteran player Sergio Busquets has no intention of doing the same. The midfielder wants to continue with his current salary at least until the end of next season.

Busquets’ current deal at Barça expires in 2023. Despite his age, he is considered an indispensable figure in the first team, with Xavi rating him highly due to his composure, skill and experience.

But having already reduced his salary twice since the pandemic, Busquets does not want to lower his wages further.

The Spaniard had recently opened up on his future during the international break. It is widely believed he will leave the club in 2023, and look to reunite with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami next summer.

Busquets’ uncertain future at Camp Nou has already promoted Barcelona to target a few defensive midfielders in the market, who can prove to be a long-term replacement for the Spanish veteran.

Ruben Neves has emerged as the top target for Xavi, especially with the Wolves midfielder set to leave Molineux in the summer. But in light of hefty demands from the English club, Barça are considering a move for Brazilian whizkid Danilo, available for just €25 million.