Ousmane Dembele reportedly wants to continue his stint with Barcelona, with the Blaugrana offering a new contract to the French international.
According to reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ousmane Dembele has a contract offer on his table from Barcelona. The Catalan giants have presented their opening proposal to the French international. And the player, whose release clause is worth €50 million, wants to remain at Camp Nou beyond the summer transfer window.
Ousmane Dembele has resurrected his stuttering career since Xavi Hernandez took over as the Barcelona manager. The 25-year-old was dawdling aimlessly under previous Barcelona managers. And his attitude issues did not do him any favours either. But Xavi’s helping hand has galvanised the player in the last 18 months.
The French international has established himself as a pivotal figure for Barcelona, often winning games singlehandedly. He has also been in fine form this season, amassing eight goals and seven assists in 30 appearances. But Dembele’s long-term future is uncertain, leaving Barcelona in a spot of bother.
The Catalan giants are eager to keep Dembele at Spotify Camp Nou beyond the summer transfer window. And recent reports have suggested that Barcelona wanted to initiate contract renewal discussions with him. And they have now submitted their opening proposal to the Frenchman, whose release clause of €50 million makes him an appealing target.
Understand Barcelona have now made new contract proposal to Ousmane Dembélé. It's just opening bid; new rounds of talks will follow. 🔵🔴 #FCB
Current deal expires in 2024 and includes €50m release clause for this summer; Ousmane wants to stay, Xavi considers him untouchable. pic.twitter.com/CXJhv5U9vC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 12, 2023
The report claims that the 25-year-old wants to remain at Camp Nou for the long haul. In addition, Xavi Hernandez considers the player “untouchable” in his squad and will not entertain the idea of a sale. But with Dembele having a release clause of €50 million, several high-profile clubs are keen.
However, Dembele’s stance will make a world of difference, helping Barcelona in contract renewal talks. And the two parties should ideally seal an agreement over a long-term deal in the coming months. But discussions between the French international and Barcelona will likely continue in the upcoming weeks.
The Catalan giants want to avoid the situation like last summer when Dembele’s contract had run out. But Barcelona succeeded in retaining his services because he was committed to Xavi’s project. And it will be interesting to see if the two parties seal an agreement after the opening offer.
