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Sergio Busquets 'disappointed with Joan Laporta over contract situation'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 10 February 2023

Busquets 'disappointed with Laporta over contract situation'

Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets is confused why the club have not yet presented him with a renewal offer, according to a report.

Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets is reportedly disappointed that the Catalan outfit have not placed a renewal offer on the table.

The 34-year-old's contract at Camp Nou is due to expire this summer, and it is still unclear whether he will be signing a new deal at the club or leave in search of pastures new.

Both the club's president Joan Laporta and head coach Xavi have recently expressed their desire for Busquets to remain at the club for at least another campaign.

"For now we are focused on La Liga. Sergio is an important player for us and it'll be difficult for our team's dynamics if he leaves," Laporta told reporters during a press conference on Thursday.

"When he decides, we'll talk about it. Neither party considers that it's the moment. We had a meeting before Christmas because he had offers from the MLS."

Sergio Busquets in action for Barcelona on September 13, 2022 © Reuters

Meanwhile, Xavi recently said: "In the end, we all work together and the decision is his. We are waiting to see what he decides. He is a very important person inside and outside, he is the captain.

"He is part of everything and he has earned the right to decide his future. If he can continue, I'd be delighted."

However, according to RAC1, Busquets is frustrated that Laporta has still not officially presented a renewal offer.

The report claims that the midfielder's representatives are confused as to why a potential new deal has not been placed on the table, as the Spaniard has made it clear that he is open to discussing a fresh agreement.

Busquets is believed to be keen to finish his professional career in the United States, but he still feels valued at Camp Nou and could therefore sign for another 12 months under the right circumstances.

Barcelona's Sergio Busquets in action with Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior on January 15, 2023 © Reuters

The experienced midfielder is currently on the sidelines with an ankle injury, having picked up the problem in the early stages of the team's 3-0 win over Sevilla in La Liga last weekend.

A timeframe for a potential return has not been set, but there are fears that Busquets could be out until next month, which would rule him out of both legs of the team's Europa League knockout round playoff with Manchester United.

Despite the form of Gavi and Pedri, Busquets has again been a vital player for Barcelona this season, featuring on 27 occasions in all competitions, contributing one assist in the process.

The former Spain captain has played 18 times in La Liga this season, while he was also involved in four of the team's six fixtures in the group stage of the Champions League.

Barcelona will be bidding to make it 11 straight wins in all competitions when they travel to Villarreal in La Liga on Sunday night.