With less than six months left on his contract, Barcelona captain Sergio Busquets is staring at an uncertain future at the club beyond the ongoing season.
One of the most successful products of the club’s La Masia youth setup, the 34-year-old recently went on to make his 700th appearance for Barça and won his first title as captain, when he lifted the Spanish Super Cup this past weekend.
But with his contract expiring in the summer, Busquets has been linked with a move to the MLS, where Inter Miami are showing serious interest.
However, manager Xavi Hernandez is intent on keeping hold of his skipper for another season. He has publicly expressed his desire to renew the Spaniard, saying that he changed the defensive midfield role for good.
“For me he is a transcendental player. He is the captain. He is always there for the team. Football-wise he is the balance of the team. There is a before and an after in the pivot position since Busquets’ arrived. He is vital for me.”
That said, a report from Catalunya Radio claims that Busquets has not made a decision on his future yet because he has not even received a renewal offer from Barcelona.
In the past reports have claimed that Busi would need to reduce his salary a fair bit if he wants to renew – for one year, reportedly. He is already owed €50 million from Barça as part of his deferred wages, and would likely not slash his salary further.
Speaking ahead of the Spanish Super Cup final, Busquet had refused to answer any questions about his expiring contract, saying, “I don’t like to talk about myself too much, I always try to do my best and help everyone, I try to help in all circumstances off and on the pitch. I try to be a normal person.”
The final decision about his future will likely be taken at the end of the season. Either way, the onus is now on Barcelona to find a replacement for him.
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