FC Barcelona is set to begin talks with Ousmane Dembélé and his representatives regarding a contract renewal, according to Cataluyna Ràdio.
The club will meet with Dembélé’s representatives next week to discuss a possible renewal at the club. The winger’s contract ends next summer, and Barça is confident it will extend his stay in Cataluyna so he does not leave for free after next season.
Dembélé’s new contract will be subjected to a salary reduction, like other players, as the club endures its financial crisis.
Dembélé saw increased success this season as he became a regular starter under manager Ronald Koeman. He recorded 11 goals and five assists in 44 matches across all competitions, and he was not significantly sidelined by injures like in the past. His consistency and form earned him a spot in the French national team with Barça teammates Antoine Griezmann and Clement Lenglet for UEFA Euro 2020 this month.
It is reported he internally expressed his desire to renew his contract with the club this season after previously stating his uncertainty earlier in the season. Juventus is also interested in competing for the 24-year-old’s signature, so Barça wants to secure his future soon.
If Dembélé opts to not renew his contract and leave next season, Barça will give his starting spot to another player. Nevertheless, the club is optimistic that the Frenchman will be wearing a Blaugrana shirt for the foreseeable future.
