Barcelona considering contract renewal for forward Memphis Depay

Memphis Depay was close to leaving Barcelona in the summer. The club even opened the door to an exit and told him he was not part of Xavi Hernandez's plans. Barça hoped he would join Juventus but a move fell through and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's transfer to Chelsea handed Memphis a second chance. Now, with his contract expiring in the summer, Barça are ready to offer him a one-year extension as long as the financial conditions are favourable.

Both Xavi Hernandez and the sporting committee are satisfied with Memphis' professionalism. He accepted the situation and has been working hard since staying. He is a versatile forward who scores goals and is technically good. He's a good option to have in the squad, adapted to the club and someone who has accepted his current role. Therefore, both sides have sounded out the possibility of a renewal, although the World Cup could put the brakes on things. Memphis could use the tournament as a shop window ahead of a lucrative free transfer next summer.

What Barça are clear on is that an agreement will only be possible if Memphis' salary fits within the medium-low earners within the squad. The player asked for €7 million to join Juve and Barça would not get near to those numbers. For now, he's seen as valuable depth and there is an option for him to stay if he wants to on the club's terms.