Six clubs vying to sign departing Barcelona captain for free

Jordi Gil has made a significant revelation through SPORT, shedding light on the current situation of Sergi Roberto at FC Barcelona. 

According to him, Barcelona president Joan Laporta and the new manager Hansi Flick are pushing Roberto to leave the club and this push has led him to start exploring other offers, with as many as six clubs vying for his signature.

Despite his deep loyalty and respect for Barcelona, it seems that these feelings might not be enough for Roberto to sign the one-season renewal contract that is currently on the table. 

The tension escalated during Hansi Flick’s press conference. Flick broke his usual reserved demeanour and made a bold statement, saying he would not discuss Roberto because “he is not a Barça player.” 

This comment was made with Laporta remaining silent, neither confirming nor denying the coach’s words.

Commitment is worth nothing

It must be noted that Sergi Roberto has been a dedicated player for Barcelona, having played over 350 games for the first team since joining the club at the age of 15. 

His emotional connection to the club is strong, and he has been waiting for the club to follow through on its promise to extend his contract once the economic situation improves. 

Sergi Roberto is set to leave Barcelona. (Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images)

However, despite repeated assurances from the president that financial stability is on the horizon, these promises have yet to materialize. As a result, Roberto is now considering other potential destinations as teams begin their pre-season preparations.

What are Roberto’s options?

Roberto is currently training alone with a physical trainer. He expressed a willingness to train with his Barcelona teammates even without a contract, but the club did not allow it due to labour regulations. 

This situation has prompted Roberto and his representatives to start looking at the offers that are coming in from other clubs.

The Premier League is Roberto’s preferred destination, with three clubs already expressing interest. Additionally, Porto, Sevilla, and Girona have shown interest in signing him. 

Ajax are also considering bringing him on board, as reported by the Dutch press, along with English clubs Aston Villa and West Ham.

Despite his international reputation, Roberto feels underappreciated at Barcelona and if the club changes its current stance and begins to treat Roberto with the respect and recognition he deserves, the situation could still be resolved in his favour.