Barcelona’s contract renewal talks with La Masia graduates Ronald Araujo and Gavi have broken down. Both the players have rejected the terms offered by the club since it does not match their demands.
The current situation for the two players is complicated. Both their contracts expire at the end of the 2023 season, and they will be able to walk out for free if they don’t agree to a new deal within that time. Otherwise, Barcelona will have to sell their two young talents this summer to cash in and minimise losses.
Barcelona’s two key youngsters reject contract offers
Ronald Araujo and Gavi have both been putting in remarkable performances this season. And as a result, they are seen as very important parts of the future of the team by the board.
But, the financial offer made to them for the renewal was very low, which caused the rejection. Chelsea’s Andreas Christensen, who has been offered a €6 million contract to join as a free agent, will be earning more than Araujo. As a result, the player wants a similar wage to the potential new recruit.
There are several top clubs keeping tabs on the two players in case they are available on the transfer market. Manchester United are interested in Araujo, while Gavi has been linked with Chelsea in the past. And with the latter’s release clause worth €50 million, more clubs can be expected to join the race.
However, Barcelona are confident of reaching an agreement for contract extensions with both players, despite the initial difficulties.