Contract talks between Barcelona and Ilaix Moriba have come to a standstill, with Goal learning that the Blaugrana suspect Real Madrid may be behind a breakdown in discussions.
The highly-rated 18-year-old is only tied to terms at Camp Nou until the summer of 2022, with another product of the famed La Masia academy system keeping everyone guessing on his future.
The hope in Catalunya is that an agreement can still be found that keeps the hot prospect on their books, but uncertainty reigns for now.
The situation at Barcelona
Barca have informed Moriba that he will not be allowed to work with the rest of the senior squad in pre-season for as long as he stalls on a new deal.
Until fresh terms are agreed, or all parties edge their way towards an agreement, the teenager will be kept out of Ronald Koeman's plans.
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Koeman did hand the youngster plenty of competitive action last season, with a senior goal account opened through 672 minutes of action across 18 appearances.
Blancos in the background
Goal
Goal has learned that Barca believe Real have a part to play in contract talks with Moriba.
The Catalan giants are of the opinion that Clasico rivals are tempting a player with considerable potential still to be unlocked.
Representatives of the Guinea-born star deny that is the case, with any move to Madrid considered to be "very difficult".
Barca are determined to keep Moriba out of the clutches of any rival as they have invested heavily in his development.
Back in 2019, he was tied to a contract worth €1 million through three seasons - the highest salary awarded to a talent in their youth ranks.
With that show of faith taken into account, such ability will not be allowed to slip through their grasp without a fight.
Barca-Real relations
Any approach from Real for Moriba would force them to butt heads with old adversaries.
That is considered to be unlikely at this stage, with Florentino Perez and Joan Laporta boasting a good working relationship.
They have backed one another through the Super League debacle, with mutual support essential if a much-maligned project is to get off the ground.
Taking that into account, Madrid president Perez would never go behind Laporta's back and risk causing a rift on and off the field.
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