Barcelona sporting director Deco has delivered a significant boost to the club's long-term future by confirming that new contracts have been agreed for three key players. The former Portugal international revealed that Raphinha, Marc Bernal, and Xavi Espart are all set to sign extensions to remain at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Bayern Munich will probably have to pull out all the stops in their pursuit of JJ Gabriel from Manchester United if they are to get the deal done. The wonderkid is said to be with another top club in person in the coming days.
Spain Under-21 head coach David Gordo has heaped praise on Barcelona starlet Xavi Espart after including the versatile teenager in his latest international squad. Gordo highlighted the 19-year-old's rare tactical maturity and spatial awareness, even drawing comparisons to senior Blaugrana maestro Pedri ahead of upcoming Euro qualifiers.
Atletico Madrid midfielder Alex Baena has tipped international team-mate Lamine Yamal to capture the 2026 Ballon d'Or ahead of Rodri and Lionel Messi. The Spaniard heaped praise on the Barcelona prodigy ahead of the Madrid derby, insisting the teenager possesses unique qualities that have not been seen since Messi's prime years.