Barcelona are reportedly set to hold a meeting with Sergi Roberto as the two parties try to work out the future of the midfielder.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Sergi Roberto’s future at Barcelona could soon be decided as the club have scheduled a meeting with his representative this week. Roberto’s current contract expires at the end of the season, and the two parties have not been able to reach an agreement over a new contract.
The 30-year-old utility man is rated highly by Xavi, but during the last meeting, Barcelona had asked the player to reduce his salary significantly in light of the financial crisis. While Roberto was open to reducing his wages, he did not agree to the massive pay cut offered by Barcelona, which has since led to speculation over the player’s future at Camp Nou.
A product of the famed La Masia youth academy, Sergi Roberto is currently one of the longest-serving players in the Barcelona squad. The player earned his promotion to the senior side in 2013 and has since racked up over 300 competitive appearances for the Blaugrana.
During his time in Catalonia, the 30-year-old has won several accolades with Barcelona, including the two UEFA Champions League titles and six Spanish league titles.
However, Roberto’s stock has fallen significantly in recent years. Since the 2020/21 campaign, the midfielder has racked up a combined total of just 13 starts in La Liga. While injuries have played a part in stifling his progress, he has struggled with form and consistency as well.
Nevertheless, the 30-year-old is regarded highly by Xavi due to his versatility. The Barcelona coach was a former teammate of Roberto, and he is well aware of his talents. Unfortunately, it appears Xavi may have to part ways with the midfielder in the summer, as Barcelona are once again expected to ask the player to settle for a massive pay cut.
Roberto has no shortage of alternatives either, with Atletico Madrid recently emerging as a potential suitor. The Spaniard has been linked with a move to the Premier League as well, with Manchester City among the clubs reportedly interested in securing his services.
Given his status as a free agent, Roberto could certainly prove to be a bargain for any European club next season, although it remains to be seen whether the player and Barcelona can churn out a last-minute agreement to further prolong his career at Camp Nou.
