Barcelona seek to tie down three pillars of womens team

Barcelona are working to secure the long-term future of their women’s team by negotiating contract extensions for three key players whose current deals expire in the summer of 2027.

The club’s main priorities are playmaker Patri Guijarro, forward Ewa Pajor and full-back Esmee Brugts. Barcelona regard the trio as important components of the squad and are seeking to prevent further disruption after a summer in which three high-profile players left the club.

The Catalan club are also seriously considering extending the contract of experienced defender Irene Paredes. Any decision over Paredes’ future will depend on whether she continues to produce the high standards she has established during her career.

Barcelona’s renewal plans form part of a wider effort to maintain the balance and cohesion of their squad. The departures of Alexia Putellas, Mapi Leon and Ona Batlle during the most recent summer transfer window represented a significant loss of experience and quality.

Despite those exits, club officials remain confident they still possess one of the strongest squads in European football. Their priority is to preserve that strength by retaining established players while continuing to develop emerging talent.

The scale of inflation in the transfer market means Barcelona have not ruled out making major signings when the right opportunity arises. That approach was illustrated by their recent move for Brazilian star Kerolin Nicoli.

However, the club’s broader recruitment philosophy is based on combining experience with youth. Barcelona want to invest in rising prospects while ensuring they have sufficient cover and quality in every area of the team.

That policy could also shape their thinking following Ona Batlle’s departure. Barcelona have not closed the door on signing a replacement for the defender during the transfer window, although they are encouraged by the marked progress of young prospect Aicha Kamara.

The club’s approach reflects a desire to avoid relying solely on expensive additions. Instead, Barcelona are assessing how their current senior players and developing talent can contribute to maintaining the team’s position at the top level of the European game.

Meanwhile, there remains uncertainty over the return of midfield star Aitana Bonmati, who has won the Ballon d’Or three times. Barcelona have declined to give a specific date for her return to competitive action.

The club’s stated priority is to ensure Bonmati reaches the decisive stage of the season in ideal physical condition rather than rushing her comeback. Her recovery remains a separate consideration from the contract planning, but her eventual return will be another important factor in the team’s prospects.

Barcelona’s immediate focus, however, is on securing the futures of Guijarro, Pajor and Brugts, while also weighing up whether Paredes should remain part of the squad beyond her current agreement.