Frenchman Ousmane Dembele’s permanence in Barcelona is yet to be defined and the trend is that the hammer will be beaten in relation to the issue in the coming weeks. The player’s contract with the Catalan club is valid until June 2022 and, although talks are underway to extend the bond, Dembele is unwilling to reduce his salary to fit the club’s financial reality. This Wednesday (19) coach Xavi Hernandez gave the player an ultimatum.
“Dembele’s situation is not easy, but the club has already made its decision: renew it or we want a solution for its departure. It is not pleasant for either party, but the club’s interests prevail. We Are in a really complicated situation. If we don’t upgrade, we have to find a solution. We can’t be in this situation. We have waited a long time. Matu (sports director) is in talks for five months and we can’t Can’t wait any longer”, said Xavi Hernandez during a press conference.
Barcelona live in a very complex financial reality and will need to reduce Dembele’s current salary to keep him at the club. Something similar happened with first defender Samuel Umtiti, who extended his contract until 2026 for a reduced salary, but with other guarantees during this period.
Dembele’s representatives are looking for a solution with Barcelona, but have yet to find a solution that will please both sides. Although they know the importance of the Frenchman being in the spotlight at Barcelona, the forward’s agent does not rule out an exit. Already in his last six months of contract, Dembele can sign contracts with any other team in this period.
The UK press has already reported that some Premier League clubs are interested in signing the 24-year-old, with Newcastle and Manchester United at an advantage in contention. Living with injuries, Dembele made just 11 games and scored one goal in the current European season.
