FC Barcelona has cut ties with a key figure, reaching a full and final agreement to terminate his contract with immediate effect.
The decision, reached after extensive negotiations, ends the player’s tenure with the club, originally set to continue until 2026.
This step is part of Barcelona’s broader strategy to optimize its squad and wage bill, crucial for registering players ahead of their upcoming La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano.
The player at the center of this agreement is Oriol Romeu, who rejoined Barcelona in 2023 from Girona to fill the void left by Sergio Busquets, as reported by RAC1.
Despite a promising start, the 33-year-old’s influence waned quickly. Following Hansi Flick’s arrival, Romeu was loaned back to Girona for the 2024/25 season, and upon returning, he was informed he had no role in the club’s future.
Excluded from Barcelona’s pre-season tour in Asia, his departure was long anticipated. The termination deal sees Barcelona covering a portion of his remaining wages, allowing Romeu to depart as a free agent.
This move, alongside the recent loan exit of goalkeeper Inaki Pena, is projected to free up approximately €4 million in Financial Fair Play margin.
For a club navigating economic challenges, this financial breathing room is critical to ensuring compliance with La Liga’s regulations and securing pending player registrations.
Romeu’s second spell at Barcelona, though brief, failed to live up to expectations, making this mutual parting a pragmatic solution for both sides.
As Romeu looks to his next chapter, interest from La Liga clubs and MLS teams presents potential opportunities.
His experience and versatility could prove valuable, though his destination remains uncertain.
For Barcelona, this termination reflects their focus on squad renewal under Flick, balancing financial constraints with competitive ambitions.
With the transfer window still open, the Blaugrana are well-positioned to capitalize on this newfound flexibility to strengthen their roster for the season ahead.
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