Real Betis midfielder has slowed down renewal amid Barcelona interest – report

It is no secret that Xavi wants to sign a pivot even if Sergio Busquets ends up signing a new contract. The manager is clear about the idea that the team lacks depth in order to challenge for the European crown and although Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat is the priority, Real Betis’ Guido Rodriguez is on the list too.

According to Spanish publication SPORT, Barcelona are aware of the fact that signing Amrabat is going to be extremely tricky. Despite the player’s willingness to move to Spotify Camp Nou, Fiorentina will continue to play hardball just like they did during the January transfer window.

As for Rodriguez, the player and even his representatives are aware of Barcelona’s interest and this is exactly why they are not renewing with Betis. 

Interestingly for the Blaugrana, Rodriguez’s situation aligns well with their plan. His ongoing deal with Betis runs until 2024 and while his initial intention was to extend his contract, the change in sports management at Betis has delayed everything.

And now, Barcelona have wasted no time in contacting his entourages, making it clear that they are studying in option. From Betis’ point of view, Rodriguez not signing an extension would be a problem as with only a year left on his deal, they will be forced to put him on the market in the summer.

These conditions suit Barcelona to mere perfection as in this case, his price would be attractive. As for the coaching staff, they are impressed by the idea that he has experience in the league and has a good positional sense.

For the moment, Barcelona’s priority is to sign Amrabat but they know getting into negotiation with Fiorentina will be tough mostly because no matter how much the midfielder forces, it will be difficult for Barcelona to lower Fiorentina’s €40 million asking price.

In Rodriguez’s case, he can delay his contractual decision until the summer and if by then he has an agreement with Barcelona, he could be a great candidate for the team next season.