Barcelona captain Sergi Roberto rejects Saudi Pro League transfer

Barcelona right-back Sergi Roberto has rejected a move to the Saudi Pro League, according to SPORT.

Roberto wants to stay at his boyhood club and is not keen on the move to the Gulf nation despite the Saudi Arabian club being ready to pay €15 million for his services.

The 31-year-old captains Barca even though he is on the bench for most of their games. He recorded an important milestone following his appearance in their 2-0 win over Cadiz last weekend.

It was Roberto’s 350th appearance for the La Liga champions since his senior team debut in a Copa del Rey clash against Cueta in November 2010. 

Roberto has bagged 16 goals, 40 assists and 25 trophies in that time. He etched his name into Barca folklore with the late winner that helped them recover from 4-1 down to beat Paris Saint-Germain 6-1 in the famous ‘Remontada’.

His contract with Barcelona expires in 2024, and they are in no hurry to sell him. 

They will decide on whether to extend his deal next season. Roberto is reportedly one of the lowest-paid senior players at the club, and there is no need to move him on.

Barca coach Xavi Hernandez played a crucial role in the player signing his latest contract extension. 

Even though he is not a starter, his versatility allows him to accumulate enough minutes throughout the season. 

Barca are now trying to provide Roberto with competition at right-back with the signing of Joao Cancelo.

The Blaugrana decided to go for the Manchester City defender ahead of Ivan Fresneda. 

Roberto also offers cover for Gavi, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Ilkay Gundogan in midfield.