Barcelona to resume Alexia Putellas contract negotiations | OneFootball

Contract negotiations between FC Barcelona and two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas will resume in the coming weeks, with outside interest coming from across Europe and North America.

There has been limited progress between the Spain captain and the reigning Liga F champions following the early departure of Markel Zubizarreta as Women’s Sporting Director. Earlier this week, the club announced Marc Vivés as his successor.

The re-signings of Putellas and centre-back María León are reportedly top priorities.

La Reina: Barcelona’s comeback queen

Following an ACL tear on the eve of the 2022 Euros, Putellas was absent for much of the 2023 season. However, a return to the pitch in April paved the way for her to play limited minutes in both Barca’s Champions League win and Spain’s historic World Cup triumph.

In October, Putellas overtook Spain teammate Jenni Hermoso in becoming Barcelona Femení’s all-time top scorer. However, the 29-year-old — who signed with Barcelona in 2012 — is out of contract on June 30th, 2024.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest female footballers of all time, Putellas’ stint with Barcelona has seen her win seven Liga F titles, seven Copa de la Reinas, and two Champions League trophies.

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Barcelona’s financial crisis

Putellas’ contract is set to expire at a time when Barcelona is dealing with severe financial difficulties. The club reportedly had debts of more than €1 billion in 2021 and have since made significant cuts to address the crisis.

Putellas’ contract renewal would be a significant step as the Spanish side looks to the future. Teammates Mariona Caldenty, María León, Sandra Paños, Asisat Oshoala, Marta Torrejón and Lucy Bronze, as well as manager Jonatan Giráldez, are also out of contract this summer.

International interest

In September, Barcelona Sporting Director Xavi Budó stated that the proposal which had been offered to Putellas was the best that Barcelona could make. While the Catalan star is reportedly keen to stay with The Blaugrana, other teams have expressed interest. Clubs in the NWSL and across Europe with the potential to pay a significantly higher salary are monitoring the situation.

Negotiations will resume following El Clásico and Barcelona’s first Champions League group games.

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