Barcelona in 'contract negotiations' to secure long-term future of key attacker

The Blaugrana have made an effort to tie down several players to new contracts since the turn of the year, including Gerard Martin, Ronald Araujo, Pedri and Gavi.

Defender Pau Cubarsi also signed a new deal last month, committing his future to the club until the summer of 2029.

They are also believed to be close to announcing a one-year extension for Inigo Martinez, whose current contract is set to expire at the end of the season.

Barcelona are not willing to finish their wave of contract renewals with Martinez's new contract, with the Blaugrana keen to prioritise new deals for three key members of their first-team squad.

Barcelona in Raphinha contract talks

According to Mundo Deportivo, Brazilian attacker Raphinha is among those who could extend his stay with the Blaugrana.

Raphinha still has two years left to run on his current deal, but Barcelona want to tie him down to a new long-term deal.

The report claims that Raphinha already has a contract proposal on the table, although negotiations are believed to be at an early stage.

The early indication is that talks are positive between the two parties, with Raphinha and Barcelona both keen to extend their association beyond the end of his current deal in 2027.

In addition to Raphinha, the Blaugrana are also looking to agree new contracts with Lamine Yamal and Jules Kounde.

Yamal, who is out of contract in 2026, has already confirmed his intent to sign a new deal with the Catalan giants.

Raphinha's importance to Barcelona

Raphinha was linked with a move away last summer amid speculation that Barcelona were looking to recruit Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams.

However, a move for Williams ultimately failed to materialise and Raphinha stayed put to start his third season as a Barcelona player.

The Brazil international has gone on to establish himself as a key part of the Barcelona side with his impressive performances this season.

Raphinha has racked up 24 goals and 18 assists in 39 competitive matches, including 13 goals and nine assists in 26 La Liga matches.

Rather than consider a sale, Barcelona are now determined to keep one of their most important members of Hansi Flick's side.

Raphinha will next be in action in Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg against Benfica - a team he scored a brace against in a 5-4 victory in a league phase encounter in January.

Written by

Ben Sully