Barcelona academy gem emerges as a free transfer target for two Spanish clubs

Academy prodigy Dani Rodriguez is sending waves across Barcelona and yet, the 18-year-old continues to face an uncertain future within the team.

The midfielder has a contract with Barcelona until the end of the season and if a report from SPORT is to be believed, the team from Catalonia does have an automatic two-season extension clause to trigger.

As of today, though, despite knowing that Athletic Club and Real Sociedad are interested in his acquisition, Barcelona have not established contacts over a renewal.

What’s the problem?

Suspicions are swirling around at Barça suggesting that Rodriguez might have already made a commitment to Athletic Club. 

Adding to the story, it has recently surfaced that Real Sociedad, Rodriguez’s hometown club, are also keeping a close eye on his movements, with hopes of bringing him back.

It must be noted that Rodriguez joined Barça at the tender age of 14, playing in the cadet category. However, due to age restrictions, formal contracts couldn’t be signed until he reached 16. 

Typically, the Blaugrana club employs the 3+2 formula, securing the player for three youth seasons and including a unilateral renewal clause for an additional two years.

Exit likely on the cards

If Barça decide to extend Rodriguez’s contract for two more seasons—a decision they are yet to make—his release clause would be set at close to €10 million, similar to other players like Pau Cubarsi or Hector Fort.

Neither Athletic Club nor Real Sociedad are prepared to pay such a hefty sum outright, but if Rodriguez expresses his desire to leave, negotiations could ensue.

Adding another layer to the situation, the footballer’s new representative is Pini Zahavi, a close friend of Joan Laporta and the agent of Robert Lewandowski.

Zahavi’s involvement could potentially smoothen the negotiation process, whether it involves a contract renewal or a transfer.