Barcelona youngster’s future remains unclear despite recent training call-up | OneFootball

Given Barcelona’s precarious defensive situation as matters stand, it is clear that the manager will turn to the academy sooner rather than later for solutions.

Ronald Araujo seems to be a top option to return as a starting centre-back, now that Eric Garcia and Joao Cancelo will have to step into full-back roles after Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde’s injuries.

However, the manager is keen on identifying options from the academy and Barça Atletic captain Alvaro Cortes has now emerged as an option.

Uncertain future

As confirmed in a recent report by Mundo Deportivo, Cortes was called up to join the first-team training session earlier this week and is being considered as an option to reinforce the squad.

Alvaro Cortes (L) is staring at an uncertain future at Barça. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

He is currently the Barça Atletic captain and seen as a top talent, but his future remains uncertain, and how the current call-up goes may have a bearing on that decision both for the club and the player.

Cortes’ current contract with Barcelona runs out in the summer, and he will thus be a free agent in less than four months. The club, however, have an option to extend his deal for one year until 2027.

As it stands, however, the player’s entourage has not received any communication regarding the same, and it is unclear if Barcelona even have it on their mind to renew his deal.

Cortes’ performance in training and hypothetical debut for the first team, needless to say, will go a long way in deciding his future and whether or not Barcelona see him as a long-term bet.

Moreover, it will help the player plan his future if he is going to leave the club for free in June, and aid his entourage in contacting interested parties.