Barcelona close to new deals for Raphinha, Marc Bernal and Xavi Espart, says Deco

Barcelona are close to finalising contract renewals for Raphinha, Marc Bernal and Xavi Espart, with sporting director Deco expecting agreements, including improved financial terms, to be completed next week.

Speaking to RAC1, Deco said negotiations over a new deal for Raphinha had advanced significantly. The Brazil forward’s current contract runs until 2028, but Barcelona are working to extend it by a further two years, keeping him at the club until 2030.

“We had practically finished it yesterday afternoon,” said Deco, underlining the progress made in talks.

Raphinha had previously told RAC1 that he wanted to remain at Barcelona and was hoping to renew his contract. He has also expressed a desire to finish his career with the Catalan club.

If the proposed extension is completed, Raphinha would stay at Barcelona until he is 33 in 2030.

Deco also confirmed that the club is working on new contracts for Bernal and Xavi Espart. Bernal is currently tied to Barcelona until 2029, while Xavi Espart’s deal runs until 2028.

Barcelona are planning to improve the salaries of both players, although the length of any new contracts has not yet been decided.

The renewals form part of the club’s plan to retain important members of its current and future project. Deco has been working on the negotiations away from the spotlight in recent weeks as Barcelona seek to secure the long-term futures of several key players.