Nike make stunning contract offer to Barcelona which will help alleviate FFP issues - Reports
Barcelona have reportedly been offered a contract worth €100 million per year from Nike to continue their partnership. The American sports manufacturer have supplied the La Liga giants' kits since 1998.
Spanish journalist Ferran Correas (via Managing Barca) reports that the offer can reach up to €120 million and it includes a €100 million bonus. The Catalan giants hope to conclude a deal by next week which would extend their current contract which expires in 2028.
Barcelona's financial situation will majorly improve should they sign the contract proposed by Nike. The Blaugrana will be able to return to the 1:1 rule this summer.
The 1:1 rule states that a La Liga club can only spend as much as they bring in. It has led to a tumultuous time for the Catalans from a financial perspective with several superstars either leaving or snubbing a move to Camp Nou.
One of those was Barca icon Lionel Messi who was allegedly wary of his beloved former club's finances last summer. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner opted to join MLS side Inter Miami instead of returning to Catalonia.
Nike's previous offer to Barca didn't match the valuation the La Liga giants' president Joan Laporta had in mind. This led to suggestions that German kit manufacturer Adidas may come into the race and a bidding war would ensue.
Barcelona and Nike look set to hand Vitor Roque the club's handed iconic No.10
Barcelona look likely to continue its partnership with Nike beyond 2028 given the attractive offer made by the American kit supplier. The Blaugrana's trademark red and blue stripes kit is one of the most famous in the sport's history.
Several legendary stars have donned the Barca jersey including Messi, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Ronaldinho. The Catalans will be eager for the new generation to shine in their Nike-supplied kits.
One of those is their January signing Victor Roque, 19, who is expected to be a future superstar at Camp Nou. The Brazilian striker has registered two goals in 13 games across competitions thus far.
Roque joined Barca from Brazilian outfit Athletico Paranaense for €40 million. He caught the eye throughout his time with his previous club, bagging 28 goals and 11 assists in 81 games.
Barcelona and Nike recognize Roque's potential to the point where they're willing to thrust him into superstardom. Reports last September claimed the two parties wanted to make the one-cap Brazil international the club's new No.10.
Roque would follow in the footsteps of Messi and Ronaldinho if handed the iconic shirt number. He would take the jersey from Ansu Fati who's spent the season on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion. The Spaniard is expected to depart this summer after falling out of favor at Camp Nou.