Mind games? Barcelona captain pessimistic about contract renewal as talks delay

Barcelona are focusing on renewing the contracts of their players after enjoying a largely successful January transfer window.

The focus, in particular, has been on handing extensions to two key young players in the squad in the form of Gavi and Ronald Araujo. Both the players have grown leaps and bounds over the course of the campaign, becoming pivotal figures in this Barça setup.

Both their contracts are up for expiry in eighteen months, making it urgent for the Catalan giants to hand him an extension at the earliest. However, there could be more pressing concerns for the Blaugrana as fourth club captain Sergi Roberto is out of contract at the end of the season.

The versatile right-back is currently out with an injury and is unlikely to return to action until the month of April. However, with his deal running out in a few months, the Spaniard is seeking an extension with the club.

According to Adria Albets, Barcelona have been delaying holding talks over a new contract with Roberto. As a result of this, there is a negative feeling with the Spanish international’s camp over the club’s intention about handing a new contract to him.

And, in order to seek clarity over the matter, Roberto and his representatives are pressing the Barcelona officials to have a meeting this week.

The midfielder turned full-back was made the fourth club captain earlier this season following the departure of Lionel Messi. He started the campaign on a decent note, scoring two goals and assisting one more in nine La Liga games before being hit with injuries. The 30-year-old last took the field for Barcelona in late October.

With Barcelona delaying talks over a new deal for the veteran, it remains to be seen if they have any plans to offer him a contract or are ready to lose him for nothing come summer.