The Star Malaysia

Busquets extends Barcelona deal by five years

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BARCELONA: Barcelona’s defensive midfielder Sergio Busquets has extended his contract by five years until 2021, the Catalan giants announced.

“It’s a five year extension running until June 30, 2021,” a Barcelona statement explained.

“Sergio Busquets is a key member of the playing staff, both out on the pitch and in the dressing room,” they said.

The agreement includes an incentive option for a two-year extension, based on the number of appearance­s he makes.

The contract has a US$223mil (RM912mil) buyout clause and will be signed in the coming days, Barca said in a statement.

“I feel valued by the club, the fans, the staff and my team-mates,” Busquets told the press at the opening of a municipal sports centre on the outskirts of Barcelona.

“I hope we can continue to do at least as well as we have been doing so far and even if the negotiatio­ns dragged on we’re all happy with the outcome,” said Busquets, whose father played in goal for the club in the 1990s.

“I never saw myself leaving here, and I’m very happy with the new deal.”

Busquets, who made his debut for Barcelona in 2008, has played 384 official matches with the first team, scoring 12 goals.

The 27-year-old has been part of a Barca squad that has won six La Liga titles, three Champions Leagues, four Spanish King’s Cup, three UEFA Super Cups, four Spanish Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cups.

Busquets has also been a key part of the Spanish national team in recent years, winning the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012. — AFP

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