Barcelona midfield prodigy set to sign four-year renewal on July 11th | OneFootball

After months of discussions and back and forth, Barcelona have finally been able to reach an agreement with midfield sensation Gavi over a new contract, reports SPORT.

The 17-year-old enjoyed a stunning breakthrough season last time out, becoming a mainstay in the centre of the park despite his young years. Gavi ended the campaign with more than 40 first-team appearances, playing a key part in the club’s second-place finish in La Liga.

In addition to that, the teenage prodigy has established a foothold in the Spanish national team as well, becoming an integral member of Luis Enrique’s squad after some stirring performances over the past eight months or so.

Given his unbridled potential and the quality he has shown at such a young age, Barcelona have been keen on ensuring that his long-term future is tied to the club.

Gavi’s current contract expires in 2023 and comes with a release clause of €50 million, which several Premier League clubs intended to trigger. However, the La Masia graduate remained firm on his stance that he wished to stay at Barcelona and sign a new deal, which discouraged suitors.

Despite his insistence, contract negotiations took longer than expected as the two parties were not in agreement over the wages being offered. Barça were offering him a pay packet lower than that of Ronald Araujo as he is just 17 and is being viewed as a future star.

Gavi’s camp, meanwhile, pushed for equal pay to the Uruguayan defender and other stars like Ansu Fati and Pedri, as they see the 17-year-old already as a permanent fixture of the first-team setup under Xavi.

However, after much deliberations, the two parties have come to an understanding, with Gavi set to receive a salary lower than that of Araujo, but it will be reviewed soon enough, based on his performances and growth.

As per the report, an agreement is in place for Gavi to extend his stay at Barça until 2026, while his release clause will also be bumped up to €1 billion.

However, an official signing will have to wait until July 11, which is when the midfield sensation will return from vacation and join the pre-season camp after having been involved in the UEFA Nations League fixtures last month.

While the midfielder had always maintained that he did not consider leaving, Gavi’s contract extension will still come as a huge relief for Barcelona.