5 Barça players out of contract next summer that Deco must discuss future with

While the transfer window may have closed this week, Barcelona Director of Football is unable to rest easy just yet. The Blaugrana have five players without a contract beyond next season, and at least three of them require his attention.

It was said that Barcelona intended to ensure that none of their players went into the final year of their contracts, as they try to avoid any potential issues – or indeed any assets leaving for free. Now Deco is working against the clock to ensure they do not reach January without the situations in their control, when said players can sign deals with other clubs and leave without a fee.

One case is thought to be agreed already, that being Marc Bernal, who to all intents and purposes has a deal until 2029. Barcelona extended his contract last September after his cruciate ligament injury, but are yet to register the new deal with La Liga.

Meanwhile Barcelona spoke to Frenkie de Jong’s agent regarding a new deal this week, but could not get a deal done. Both he and Eric Garcia, whom Barcelona are yet to negotiate with beyond a declaration of intentions say Sport, are expected to sign new deals.

Many expect veteran striker Robert Lewandowski to fulfil his contract with Barcelona, a fourth year in Catalonia, and be let go. Next summer the Polish international turns 38, but a decision may hinge on what is on offer from Saudi Arabia for Lewandowski, and whether Barcelona can find a replacement. Nevertheless, it is a call to be made.

There is even more uncertainty over the future of Andreas Christensen. Barcelona tried to sell the Danish defender this summer, but with the 29-year-old refusing to leave, it seems he is set to run down his deal. It is not entirely clear whether Barcelona would consider offering him a new deal. Like Lewandowski, how the season progresses may impact Deco’s thinking.