Barcelona have made a new contract offer to Ousmane Dembele, who is keen to stay with the club. The French international has received an initial proposal from the Blaugrana, as per reliable Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano. The player, who has a €50 million release clause, is happy to continue his career at Camp Nou after the summer transfer window.
Ousmane Dembele has turned his fortunes around since Xavi Hernandez became the Barcelona manager. The 25-year-old was struggling under previous Barcelona coaches and had some attitude problems as well. But Xavi’s guidance and support have transformed him in the last 18 months.
The French international has become a key player for Barcelona, often delivering match-winning performances. He has also been impressive this season, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists in 30 games. But Dembele’s future is unclear, putting Barcelona in a difficult situation.
The Catalan giants want to secure Dembele’s services at Spotify Camp Nou beyond the summer transfer window. And recent reports have indicated that Barcelona wanted to start contract renewal talks with him. And they have now made their first offer to the Frenchman, whose €50 million release clause makes him an attractive target for many clubs. The report states that the 25-year-old is eager to stay at Camp Nou for a long time. Moreover, Xavi Hernandez sees him as “untouchable” in his team and will not consider selling him. But with Dembele having a €50 million release clause, several top clubs are interested.
However, Dembele’s preference will be crucial, helping Barcelona in contract renewal negotiations. And the two sides should ideally reach an agreement over a long-term deal in the next few months. But talks between the French international and Barcelona will likely go on in the following weeks.
The Catalan giants want to avoid the situation like last summer when Dembele’s contract had expired. But Barcelona managed to keep him because he was loyal to Xavi’s project. And it will be curious to see if the two sides seal a deal after the first offer.