Transfer Centre

Sergi Roberto 'planning to make MLS move next summer'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 15 October 2023

Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto is keen to make the move to the MLS when his contract with the Catalan outfit expires, according to a report.

Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto is reportedly planning to end his time at Camp Nou next summer in order to make the move to the United States.

The 31-year-old has been with the Catalan giants since 2006, representing the club for three years at youth level, before making his Barcelona B debut in 2009.

Roberto has been in the first team at Camp Nou since 2010, representing the club on 355 occasions, scoring 17 goals and registering 40 assists in the process.

The 11-time Spain international has won seven La Liga titles, six Copa del Rey crowns, three Spanish Super Cups, two Champions League trophies, the UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup during a glittering career.

Roberto was a regular last season, featuring on 33 occasions in all competitions, while he has played six times during the 2023-24 campaign.

Barcelona's Sergi Roberto in action with Villarreal's Dani Parejo on August 27, 2023 © Reuters

The midfielder has only started twice for Barcelona this season, with Joao Cancelo becoming the first-choice right-back since his arrival, while Roberto is down the pecking order for the spots in the middle of the park.

Roberto's deal at Camp Nou is due to expire next summer, and although there is an option for a 12-month extension, he is allegedly planning to depart in June 2024.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Roberto is keen to make the move to the United States, where he would join ex-Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.

The report claims that the midfielder's first choice would be a switch to New York, making New York City FC and New York Red Bulls potential options for him next year.

Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto on October 23, 2022 © Reuters

Earlier this year, Barcelona head coach Xavi said that he wanted to keep Roberto at Camp Nou for "many years".

"Sergi Roberto is one of the most unfairly criticised players that I have ever seen. He always does well, in whatever position. He's very altruistic, a big Cule, and has an excellent attitude. I want him to renew and stay many years here," Xavi told reporters during a period when the Spaniard was facing criticism.

Roberto was an unused substitute in four straight league games for Barcelona before coming off the bench to score against Granada before the international break.

The Spaniard also captained the Catalan side in their league games with Villarreal and Osasuna earlier this season.

Barcelona will be bidding to return to winning ways in La Liga when they host Athletic Bilbao next weekend before welcoming Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League.