Deco Updates Barcelona Contract Talks for Raphinha, Bernal and Espart
Barcelona have taken a significant step towards securing both their established leaders and the next generation from La Masia, with sporting director Deco confirming agreements or advanced talks involving Raphinha, Bernal and Espart at the club’s General Assembly.
The planned renewals form part of Barcelona’s attempt to provide continuity while managing a challenging financial position. The early results under Hansi Flick have strengthened that approach: Barcelona have won each of their first six La Liga matches, scoring 28 goals, and also opened their Champions League campaign with victory against Feyenoord.
Raphinha set for 2030 extension
Raphinha is expected to sign a new deal running until 2030, extending his existing contract by two years. His previous agreement had been due to end in 2028.
The Brazilian winger, now 29, has become a central figure in Flick’s side and has worn the captain’s armband this season. He has returned 11 goals and three assists from seven appearances in all competitions, underlining his importance during Barcelona’s fast start.
Deco said the club had reached an agreement with the player’s representatives the previous afternoon and indicated that the final formalities were close. He expects Raphinha to remain at Barcelona for the coming four years.
Bernal and Espart part of youth plan
Barcelona are also preparing improved contracts for two young players regarded as important parts of the club’s future.
- Bernal, a deep-lying midfielder, is expected to commit to Barcelona until 2031. He has made seven appearances across all competitions this season and supplied two assists.
- Full-back Espart is in line for a contract through to 2030, matching the proposed length of Raphinha’s extension.
- The negotiations reflect Barcelona’s wish to retain control over academy-developed talent amid strong competition for emerging players.
Deco recognised that not every academy player will be able to establish himself in the senior squad, despite the ambition shared by many La Masia graduates. He said the club must protect its position over those players in order to manage its talent pool properly.
Strong start gives renewal drive added weight
The contract work has arrived alongside a productive opening to the campaign, with Barcelona combining domestic momentum with an early European win.
| Category | Figure |
|---|---|
| La Liga matches won | 6 from 6 |
| La Liga goals scored | 28 |
| Raphinha appearances | 7 |
| Raphinha goals and assists | 11 goals, 3 assists |
| Bernal appearances and assists | 7 appearances, 2 assists |
For Barcelona, retaining Raphinha’s experience while tying down Bernal and Espart would offer a blend of immediate security and longer-term planning as the club seek to sustain their competitive start.
Deco praises departing forwards
Deco also paid tribute to Robert Lewandowski and Marcus Rashford following their exits. Lewandowski joined Chicago Fire during the summer, while Rashford returned to Manchester United after his loan spell last season.
The sporting director described Rashford’s contribution last term as outstanding and placed Lewandowski among the game’s leading centre-forwards of the past 15 years, calling the former Barcelona striker a club legend.
