Barcelona want to renew young star’s contract to avoid another ‘Xavi Simons’ case

Barcelona are actively working on several contract renewals within their youth setup, and one of the most notable cases is that of Unai Hernandez. 

In fact, according to a report from SPORT, the club is in talks to extend Hernandez’s contract, which is set to expire in 2025. 

Barcelona are particularly keen to avoid a repeat of the situation they faced with Xavi Simons, where the player left the club before signing a renewal.

Hernandez, who plays as a midfielder for Barça Atletic, has been impressing with his performances in the reserve team. Despite his consistent displays, though, he has yet to earn a place in Hansi Flick’s first-team squad. 

However, the club recognises his potential and is determined to secure his future to prevent him from becoming another ‘Xavi Simons case’.

Concerns at Barcelona regarding Hernandez

Last season, Hernandez finished with outstanding numbers, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists for Barça Atletic. 

Barcelona want to extend Unai Hernandez’s contract. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

His performances earned him a spot in the pre-season squad under Flick, and he even managed to score in the first friendly of the summer. Despite this, he has not yet had the chance to make a first-team appearance, even though he has regularly trained with them.

The club is well aware of the risk involved if they don’t secure Hernandez’s renewal soon. They have seen what happened with players like Marc Guiu, who gained prominence with the first team without sealing their contracts. 

Barcelona worry that should Hernandez get a chance with the first team and deliver standout performances, his value could skyrocket, making it difficult to keep him. 

The concern is that, by the end of the season, he could leave for free if tempted by offers from other clubs.

While this does not mean the club is holding back Hernandez due to his contract situation, it is a factor they are considering. 

If sporting reasons demand it, he would be given opportunities, just as players like Toni and Guille Fernandez have been. However, securing his future at the club remains a priority to ensure Barcelona don’t lose another talented youngster without compensation.