Barcelona want to renew 24-year-old, but plan to sell him in the near future – report

One of Xavi Hernandez’s first requests upon arrival as the Barcelona manager was the contract extension of Ousmane Dembele. The Spanish coach based his philosophy on wide wingers who could take on defenders fearlessly, and the Frenchman was seen as an ideal fit.

However, the saga of his renewal has been far from smooth since then. The player has gone on to demand ridiculous wages, threatening to leave the club on a free transfer. Meanwhile, Barcelona have tried hard to convince the player’s entourage that there is no better place for his continuity.

According to reports from Rondeando TV, the only reason the Catalans are desperate to renew the winger is not related to his sporting contribution. It is reportedly a future sale for a higher price that motivates the club’s offices.

In 2017, Dembele made the move from Borussia Dortmund to Barcelona for a fee of well over €100 million. Since then, he has struggled to prove his worth owing to a string of injuries.

Even to date, the forward has missed more games than he has taken part in. To lose such a big signing on a free transfer would indeed be a big blow to Laporta’s plans.

Being on the final six months of his contract, Dembele has significant leverage over the club’s administration. However, the same will not be the case after a renewal. If Barcelona can secure an extension, the Spanish giants can ask for a larger transfer fee in the coming future, helping them recoup their investment.

Dembele has participated in ten games since his return from injury and recorded one goal and two assists. Yet, his poor injury record provides a strong enough case for the Catalans decision to sell him if a renewal is secured.