Soccer

Deco: Barcelona Close to New Deals for Raphinha, Bernal and Espart

By Hugo Brennan

Deco: Barcelona Close to New Deals for Raphinha, Bernal and Espart

Barcelona’s boardroom has turned its attention to continuity, with sporting director Deco outlining three contract moves intended to secure both an established Brazilian forward and two teenagers at the club.

Barcelona prepare three agreements

  1. Deco told the club’s Assembly that Raphinha’s new deal was almost completed after discussions the previous afternoon, with the formal conclusion expected next week.
  2. The 29-year-old Brazilian is set to extend his current Barcelona contract by two years, moving its expiry from 2028 to 2030.
  3. Earlier that day, Raphinha had said he wanted to remain with Barcelona and, if possible, finish his career there. He would be 33 when the proposed agreement ends.
  4. Deco also confirmed that improved terms were close for Marc Bernal, 19, and Xavi Espart, also 19.
  5. Bernal’s contract is due to move from 2029 to 2031, while Espart’s planned extension would take him from 2028 to 2030.

The Raphinha agreement is particularly significant for Hansi Flick’s evolving side. The Brazilian, traditionally associated with wide attacking roles, has also been used through the middle by the Barcelona coach.

All three negotiations have been developed quietly in recent weeks, and Deco indicated that the club expects the renewals and salary upgrades to be completed definitively in the coming week.