Nike vs Puma! Are Barcelona playing kit manufacturer game in bid to get best possible deal?

The Liga giants are currently tied to terms with Nike that are supposed to run through until the summer of 2026, with there the option for a further two-year extension beyond that point. The Blaugrana have been working with the American sportswear giants for over 20 years.

Barca are, however, said to be unhappy with their present deal and are looking to renegotiate. It has been suggested that a contract with Nike could be terminated – with Puma emerging as frontrunners to take over in Catalunya.

A deal worth €200 million (£171m/$217m) per year was said to be close with the German brand, but discussions there have slowed down. That is because, according to SPORT, Barca are being accused of playing rival manufacturers off against each another.

Puma believe that Barcelona are using them as a pawn in a game that is intended to get a better offer from Nike. They were ready to take things forward, if all legal loopholes could be closed off with Nike, but suspicions have now been raised.

It is claimed that Barca could now thrash out fresh terms with Nike, taking both parties beyond 2028, with it possible that advanced income can be secured that would allow the Liga heavyweights – who are currently in the process of redeveloping their Camp Nou home – to bring in much-needed funds that would help to balance the books in 2024.