Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans want Robert Lewandowski stay, Spanish ace set for renewal, and more - November 8, 2024
Barcelona are leading the LaLiga title race after 12 games this season, nine points ahead of Real Madrid, who have a game in hand. Hansi Flick's team next face Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena on Sunday, November 10, in the league.
Meanwhile, the Catalans want Robert Lewandowski to continue his stay at Camp Nou for a couple more seasons. Elsewhere, a Spanish defender is set to be handed a new contract.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from November 8, 2024.
Barcelona want Robert Lewandowski stay
Barcelona consider Robert Lewandowski a key part of their plans and want him to stay until 2027, according to SPORT. The Polish striker has been in sizzling form this season under Hansi Flick, registering 19 goals and two assists from 16 games across competitions.
Lewandowski's contract with the Catalans reportedly expires next summer. However, his deal will be automatically renewed for an additional year if he registers a predetermined number of appearances this season.
The veteran striker will turn 37 next August, so there is speculation regarding his next move. However, the LaLiga giants consider him an integral part of their setup for now as well as the future.
Barcelona are confident that Robert Lewandowski will stay at the club next season, due to the renewal clause in his deal. However, the Catalans are also considering keeping him at Camp Nou beyond 2026.
The player is settled at the club and doesn't see himself playing for any other team as long as he operates in Europe. However, both parties are relaxed about the situation and a final decision will be taken in due time.
Inigo Martinez set for renewal
Inigo Martinez is likely to earn a contract extension at Camp Nou, according to SPORT. The Spanish defender's current deal with Barcelona expires at the end of this campaign.
However, there's an automatic one-year renewal option if he plays 60% of the Catalans' games this season for a minimum of 45 minutes. Martinez had been a leader at the back this season for the LaLiga giants and is indispensable under Hansi Flick.
The 33-year-old has appeared in all but one of Barcelona's 16 games this campaign, which includes 11 starts. Flick is pleased with his efforts and considers Martinez as a key part of his plans. As such, there's every chance he will stay at Camp Nou beyond this season.
Frenkie de Jong's future remains uncertain
Frenkie de Jong's future at Camp Nou remains uncertain as he heads into the final 18 months of his contract, according to journalist Laia Tudel. The Catalans have already initiated contract talks with the Dutchman, who is yet to respond to their offer.
There was a recent meeting between the two parties but it led to no outcome. The LaLiga giants are concerned that the player could be plotting to leave for free in 2026.
As such, Barcelona are reportedly planning to give him an ultimatum soon. De Jong has to sign a new deal, possibly with reduced wages, or he will be offloaded next summer.
The 27-year-old returned from an ankle injury last month and has since appeared six times under Hansi Flick. Manchester United were previously interested in him, but those rumours have dried up of late.