Barcelona have already sent their first contract offer to exit-linked midfielder

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, FC Barcelona have sent their first official proposal to Sergio Busquets’ entourage to renew the player’s contract.

The offer holds a one-year extension at Spotify Camp Nou and could even feature a clause to add another year next summer based on the number of minutes the midfielder plays.

Further, the renewal involves a massive wage reduction compared to what Busquets currently earns. The final decision now lies in the hands of the Barcelona captain and is expected in the coming weeks.

The La Masia jewel has been a regular under Xavi Hernandez this season and has appeared in 21 of the Catalans’ 25 games in La Liga so far. Despite being 34 years old, the midfielder is one of the few irreplaceable players on the team.

In his 19 La Liga starts for Barcelona, Busquets has provided three assists and averages 0.6 key passes per game. With an average of 11 defensive actions per game, the veteran continues to guard the team’s fortress alongside the rejuvenated defence.

Age has undeniably caught up with the academy graduate and is evident in his performances on the field. However, his slow legs have not proved to be a massive problem this season given the immense work rate of the players around him.

It remains to be seen if the captain decides to leave for the MLS come June or accepts to be part of Xavi’s project for another season.

Frenkie de Jong is currently best placed to take over the role in defensive midfield if Busquets departs. However, Barcelona are actively scouting options on the market including Ilkay Gundogan, Martin Zubimendi, and Marcelo Brozovic.