Long-serving Barcelona star interested in Premier League switch after seeing Camp Nou contract expire

Roberto has spent his entire career at Barcelona but could be on the move as a free agent. The versatile veteran's contract at the club has expired and a renewal offer has not been forthcoming due to Barca's ongoing difficult financial situation. Roberto has now decided he is unwilling to wait any longer for Barcelona to make an offer and is considering an offer from a Premier League side, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Barcelona sporting director Deco had told Roberto the club was counting on him for next season and set a deadline of August 10 for a renewal offer to be made. However, Roberto has not returned to the club for the start of pre-season training under new manager Hansi Flick and is now willing to listen to offers. La Liga sides Sevilla, Girona and Valencia are interested in the 32-year-old, but he would prefer a new challenge and could be heading to England.

Former boss Xavi urged Barcelona to keep hold of Roberto before leaving the club this summer. He told reporters: “I don’t know if it will be his last season. My recommendation to the club is to renew him. I think he’s a very important team player, both in the locker room and on the field.”

Yet Roberto's time at Barcelona does now appear to be up as the club's financial problems continue to affect their squad planning. The club are also hoping to land Athletic Club star Nico Williams this summer but it remains to be seen if they will be able to afford to activate the release clause in his current contract.