Rafael Marquez's Barcelona Future In Doubt As Contract Talks Stall - Report
The Blaugrana could risk losing Rafa for nothing next year, as they have so far failed to agree a new deal with the Mexican defender...
Rafael Marquez's future at Barcelona is in doubt, as talks over a contract extension have failed to progress.
According to the Mexican press, Marquez has rejected the Blaugrana's latest offer. The club are only prepared to offer him a single year's extension, while the player is holding out for two seasons, with the option of a third.
The Mexican international defender started last season as a first choice at the Camp Nou, but his inopportune injury in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Chelsea saw him miss the business end of the campaign.
In his absence, Gerard Pique blossomed into the best form of his career as Barca went on to win an historic treble. Therefore, Marquez is no longer a guaranteed starter at the club.
However, the Catalans are still keen to renew Marquez's contract, as they risk losing him for nothing when his current deal expires in a season's time otherwise. He has no shortage of admirers across Europe, and the club would be loath to see him move to a rival for nothing.
Negotiations are set to continue with both sides keen for an agreement, but it seems clear that Marquez will not settle for a mere year's extension.
Arjun Miglani, Goal.com
-
Foolish Luis Suarez lets Liverpool down by refusing to shake Patrice Evra's hand
The Uruguayan striker snubbed the Manchester United defender before Saturday's clash, the first meeting of the players after the ex-Ajax star was banned for racist abuse
-
Wayne Rooney settles fierce Liverpool clash to send United top of the Premier League
The England striker has combined with Danny Welbeck to great effect this season and surpassed the 20-goal mark with another match-winning display in the 2-1 win at Old Trafford
-
Thierry Henry seals EPL swansong as rivals fall by the wayside on perfect day for Arsenal
Gunners manager Arsene Wenger has left the door open for a return to the Emirates and it's no wonder because the French striker has galvanised the Emirates as AC Milan loom
-
Legends: Manchester United's Fearsome Frenchman - Eric Cantona
"I am not man. I am Cantona!", the striker once arrogantly proclaimed. But others were neither courageous enough nor good enough to prove him wrong. A closer look at his career...
-
The top 20 clubs in football's money league
Deloitte's annual publication of the richest sides in football sees a familiar Spanish duo stretch their advantage over England's finest in 2010-11