Barcelona defender reaches ‘full agreement’ to sign new deal until 2024 – Romano

Fabrizio Romano has provided an important update regarding Sergi Roberto’s future, claiming that Barcelona and the player have reached ‘complete’ agreement to extend his contract until 2024.

Xavi had personally demanded Barça to extend Roberto’s contract as he considers the defender an integral squad player. They have since fastracked the process and are currently preparing documents for the same.

Roberto was set to become a free agent last summer, but Xavi had personally asked the club to renew him, at least for another season. He even spoke about the player’s importance publicly before he eventually took a pay-cut and signed for another year.

The Spaniard then started this season rather well, scoring two and assisting two in the opening months. However, he has since lost his spot at right-back, with Xavi preferring the services of Jules Kounde in that role.

Given Barcelona’s lack of right-backs, though, it makes sense that the coaching staff want to extend Roberto’s deal. They might want to prioritise other positions in the summer, for example, finding a replacement for Sergio Busquets, or a backup for Robert Lewandowski.

Roberto was offered an extension earlier this season, which he promptly refused. A second, improved offer was accepted by the player, though, as he prioritised staying at the club over finding new pastures.

Barça will have finite amount of funding to get through the summer market, with La Liga’s Financial Fair Play rule heavily breathing down their necks. Not to forget, they might have to force some players out to raise money through player sales.