Barcelona in two minds about 38-year-old’s contract extension – report

Barcelona are stuck in two minds about renewing Dani Alves, who was signed for free in the winter of 2022. The 38-year-old has hit the ground running immediately with a goal and three assists for the team in nine appearances while also creating 2.2 chances every game.

According to Javi Miguel, however, Barcelona believe that the signings of Cesar Azpilicueta and Noussair Mazraoui — both right-backs by trade —, is bound to reduce Alves’ game-time. As such, renewing him is not necessary.

Additionally, Sergino Dest’s future is not certain as well, who has already found it difficult to get going in Xavi’s setup.

This news comes right after several reports in recent days stated otherwise. Xavi, too, in fact, was rather non-discreet when asked about Alves’ renewal.

“We haven’t spoken to Alves but from what he is giving to the team in every way, he is an example and hopefully we can decide that he continues at the end of the season. He is giving us a lot and I would like him to continue next season because he can give us a lot,” he said.

Barça have already wrapped up the signing of Andreas Christensen are to be believed, and Azpilicueta, Mazraoui, and AC Milan’s Franck Kessie are next on their wishlist. All three will become free agents in the summer, and each already has a foot out of their respective clubs.

However, it is essential to remember that Jordi Alba is the only player covering at left-back, and both, Dest and Azpilicueta, are able deputies in that position. Not to forget that the Chelsea legend can also cover in central defence, especially in a three-man backline.

While Alves is on a meager salary, it’s inevitable that his prominence in the team diminishes when new players arrive. The 38-year-old has never been afraid of competition, though, and one would be a fool to bet against him in this situation.