Barcelona sporting director Deco told the club’s General Assembly that agreements are close to being finalised on new contracts for Raphinha, Marc Bernal and Xavi Espart. Raphinha’s proposed extension would run through 2030. Deco did not present the deals as formally signed, instead describing them as close to completion and awaiting the final steps, according to Goal.

Raphinha and Barcelona’s long-term plan

Raphinha, 29, wears the captain’s armband and has been an important figure for Hansi Flick’s side this season. The Brazilian winger has registered 11 goals and three assists in seven appearances across all competitions. His previous contract was due to expire in 2028, meaning the extension outlined by Deco would add two years to his stay at the club.

Barcelona signed Raphinha from Leeds United in 2022. Deco said the proposed agreement would keep him with Barcelona for the next four years, while reporting on the Assembly described the renewal as practically agreed and still to be formalised.

The other two players named by Deco are Marc Bernal and Xavi Espart. Bernal, a deep-lying midfielder, has made seven appearances and supplied two assists across all competitions this season. He is set to extend his contract to 2031. Full-back Espart is expected to sign a deal through 2030. Both players are 19 and are among the young players Barcelona have highlighted alongside the senior captain’s proposed renewal.

What Deco actually confirmed

At the Assembly, Deco described the three negotiations as major progress rather than completed business. He also told RAC1 that Raphinha’s renewal until 2030 was well on its way and that the agreements for Bernal and Espart were progressing too, according to Barca Blaugranes.

Deco linked the renewals to Barcelona’s sporting objective of competing for every title and to the club’s intention to continue relying on young players from La Masia. Reporting from the Assembly also described the contract discussions as part of Barcelona’s effort to manage its financial situation while remaining competitive on the pitch.

What this means for the club

The proposed renewals would give Barcelona a longer-term agreement with their captain while also addressing the futures of two young players. Raphinha’s deal would run to 2030, Espart’s proposed contract would also run to 2030, and Bernal’s would extend to 2031.

Bernal and Espart’s inclusion in Deco’s announcement reflects Barcelona’s continued reliance on players from La Masia. The three negotiations combine an established first-team figure with two younger players identified as part of the club’s plans.

What happens next

None of the three agreements was presented as signed at the Assembly. The remaining step is the formal completion of the contracts: Raphinha and Espart are set for terms to 2030, while Bernal is expected to extend to 2031. Reporting on Deco’s announcement indicated that the renewals were expected to be formalised during the following week.

Cristina Albero Posted by