Talks between Barcelona and Sergi Roberto on a new contract extension have stalled with no timetable set on when talks may renew.
According to Mundo Deportivo, negotiations are on hold, confirmed by his agent Josep Maria Orobitg, but with the caveat they can begin anew at any moment.
The last week has been one of contrast for the midfielder as he once again had a poor showing in the Champions League defeat to Benfica and was benched for the loss against Atletico Madrid.
However, despite his performances, he continues to be a a man of confidence for manager Ronald Koeman as he is one of the Dutchman’s first choice off the bench.
The Barcelona midfielder was rumored with a move away during the summer
Roberto has, on more than one occasion, drawn the ire of the Barcelona supporters. He was one of the players singled out in the match against Bayern Munich. The jeers by the Camp Nou left him in tears.
Yet, given his erratic start to the season, he received some good news over the weekend when he was called up to the Spain squad by Luis Enrique. He replaced Brais Mendez who had replaced Pedri.
The 29-year-old had been the topic of a move away before the start of the season. There were reports Manchester City was interested in a possible deal.
With the news that talks have stalled, more rumors are sure to surface the closer it gets to the start of the winter transfer window. Goal, in fact, are reporting that City are monitoring his situation.
The word “revolution” has been thrown about at Barcelona the last couple of seasons but has yet to happen. The squad is still overinflated with a number of players who are not at the level required and who are a drain on the wage bill.
Sergi Roberto is one of those players despite having the confidence of a number of managers. His ability to play multiple positions is both a blessing and a curse. He can fill in when needed but is average at best.
He is on the final year on his contract and the writing appears to be on the wall. The only question is whether Barcelona try to get a fee for him come January or let him leave on a free at the end of the season.