Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto has turned down the club’s first offer of a new contract, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Spanish international was reportedly seriously considering quitting the Camp Nou for Chelsea last summer, but was convinced to stay after a meeting with Barca officials.
At the time, the 25 year old had been used sparingly by manager Ernesto Valverde in preseason, and did not look to be part of the club’s first team plans. Roberto was however chosen to start Barcelona’s first league game of the season against Real Betis in central midfield, and he has gone on to make 16 appearances in all competitions so far.
There is still however questions over the player’s long term future at the La Liga club. The midfielder continues to be played out of position at right back, while his current deal expires in 2019. Juventus have also shown an interest in the player along with Chelsea, and it will be interesting to see how negotiations progress after this first round of talks.