Barcelona in advanced negotiations with in-form superstar over contract renewal

Barcelona in advanced negotiations with in-form superstar over contract renewal Raphinha’s future at Barcelona is starting to look increasingly settled. Journalist Matteo Moretto says on Radio MARCA that negotiations over a new contract for the Brazilian are already at a very advanced stage, with Barça planning to improve his financial terms and extend his stay beyond the current 2028 expiry date. There was another option on the table earlier this year, with Saudi Arabian interest bringing a sizeable offer to Raphinha’s camp, and the Barcelona captain did consider it. In the end, though, he chose to stay. That decision has helped put the renewal talks in a strong position. Deco has already started the process Barcelona sporting director Deco met Raphinha earlier this week at a restaurant in Castelldefels, where the first detailed discussions over a new agreement took place. Barcelona are in advanced talks with Raphinha over a contract renewal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) The meeting was informal, but its timing was important. Barcelona want to add another year or two to Raphinha’s contract, while the player remains fully committed to continuing at the club. As such, there is no need for either side to force the negotiations, as Raphinha still has two years left on his existing deal, and the discussions are taking place with both parties comfortable with the situation. Barcelona’s intention is to improve his salary as part of the new agreement, with the club targeting a renewal before the end of the year. Raphinha is handling his own future The structure of the negotiations makes the situation particularly unusual because Raphinha does not currently work with a traditional agent and is handling the discussions himself alongside his wife.  That means Deco’s role is now entirely on Barcelona’s side. Raphinha’s current contract runs until 2028. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) The Barcelona representative played a part in Raphinha’s move from Leeds United to Catalonia, but his position at the club means he cannot simultaneously act for the player in these negotiations. That leaves Raphinha directly involved in deciding the terms of his next contract. Raphinha has become one of the central figures in Flick’s attack and has already taken on a leadership role within the squad. The Saudi approach showed alternatives existed, but Raphinha prioritised Barcelona. Now the focus is on putting that decision into contractual terms. With talks already well advanced, the Brazilian could soon sign a new deal that takes him into the next phase of his Barcelona career.