Barcelona reach agreement in principle with breakthrough prodigy over new contract

Even though the 2023/24 season is set to end with disappointment for Barcelona, the explosion of several La Masia talents will be a silver lining.

Pau Cubarsi is one of those youngsters that have burst onto the scenes this season, with the 17-year-old wonderkid already becoming a mainstay in the defence despite his age.

Since making his debut in January, Cubarsi has grown a lot in stature and naturally Barcelona have been eager to secure his long-term future at the club.

Renewal imminent

Now, SPORT has come forward with a major update as far as Cubarsi’s contract renewal is concerned.

Only earlier this week, we reported that the talks over a new deal were progressing at a good pace and there was optimism among all parties that everything would be finalised soon.

Now, SPORT claims that Barcelona and Cubarsi have reached an agreement in principle over a new contract for the teenage defensive prodigy.

In fact, the 17-year-old’s contract renewal is expected to be closed this week. If there are some delays in closing the final details, everything is likely to be wrapped up next week at the latest.

However, an official announcement might be delayed, with Barcelona deciding that based on the club’s communication and organisational needs.

Big step in the right direction

Cubarsi has exploded in a huge way this season and securing his future is a big step in the right direction for Barcelona.

After all, the 17-year-old had been attracting interest from various clubs following his breakthrough. Furthermore, given that his existing deal until 2026 had a €10 million release clause, it left the door open for clubs to make a move.

As such, Barça moved quickly to tie him down to a new deal, with Cubarsi himself keen on staying at the club where he has been since 11 years old.

Cubarsi’s new deal is expected to be for five years and would kick in January 2025, after he turns 18 years old. The release clause is likely to be in excess of €500 million.

Whether he will be given a first-team number next season would likely depend on the Fair Play margin that Barça have.