Barcelona plan to let veteran midfielder Oriol Romeu leave for free this summer. His contract runs until June 2026, but the club no longer sees him as part of Hansi Flick’s plans. Both sides are now working toward a mutual contract termination.
At 33, Romeu is entering the final year of his deal. His form has declined, and few clubs have shown serious interest. Because of this, Barcelona cannot expect a transfer fee. A contract termination is the most practical solution.
Valencia and Girona Monitor Romeu’s Situation
Negotiations between Romeu and Barcelona are ongoing. Reports suggest the midfielder is ready to waive his remaining contract year to leave as a free agent. Valencia have shown strong interest in signing him without a transfer fee. Girona, his former club, is also watching closely. However, concerns about Romeu’s fitness after last season’s loan remain a hurdle.
Exit Strategy Aims to Clear Space for Summer Signings
Barcelona are focusing on player exits this summer. The goal is to clear salary space and open room in the squad. This will help the club register new arrivals like Joan Garcia and Marcus Rashford, who await La Liga approval under Financial Fair Play rules.
The club has already left Romeu out of their Asia pre-season tour squad. Other excluded players include Iñaki Peña, Pau Víctor, and even Marc-André ter Stegen, though the latter’s absence relates to his recovery. Romeu’s omission strongly suggests that his departure is near.
Why Romeu’s Exit Aligns with Barcelona’s Strategy
Romeu’s form, age, and reduced playing time have lowered his market value. Barcelona see little benefit in waiting for a transfer offer. By ending the contract now, they can lower the wage bill and focus on building a younger squad.
While they won’t gain a transfer fee, this move supports a larger plan. Hansi Flick wants a leaner, more dynamic team for the 2025/26 season. Removing older players who no longer fit his vision helps achieve that goal.
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