Real Betis want Barcelona midfield target to continue at club for “many more years”

In what could be a big blow to Barcelona and their pursuit of Guido Rodriguez, it has been learned that Real Betis are trying everything in their power to renew the midfielder’s contract in order to thwart the interest he has generated.

Rodriguez, 29, has a valid contract with Betis until 2024 and we have reported before that Barcelona are eyeing the midfielder for a cut price in January. 

However, considering the situation at hand, Betis are preparing a lucrative contract for the 29-year-old as they aim to make life difficult for Barça.

Betis appreciate Rodriguez’s decision

Ramon Planes, Betis’ sporting director, recently spoke about the midfielder during a press conference to present Sergi Altimira and Ez Abde, saying that although there has been interest from several teams, they respect the fact that he decided to continue this season.

“We must value the fact that he has stayed. He has been in the market window. There have been clubs interested in his situation and they have knocked on the door. We must value the fact that he continues at Betis,” he was quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

Planes added that the player is very important both on and off the field while also pressing that the team would love to see him play for Betis for many more years.

“Our intention what we have shown and communicated is that we would very much like him to stay, to extend his contract. He gives us many things, both on the field and off. He has incredible values ​​and commitment. 

“We would love it and that is what we are going to work for. We would love for him to continue for many more years,” Planes added.

Barcelona wanted Rodriguez in the summer

Barcelona’s interest in the 29-year-old is not new. In fact, the midfielder was on Barcelona’s agenda during the summer but the team decided to go with Oriol Romeu instead.

The idea behind signing Rodriguez was to use him as pivot and as it turns out, he continues to be on the list even today. 

Meanwhile, Betis will try everything in their power to tie him up for a longer tenure, but the possibility of playing for Barcelona could be hard to ignore. Come January, we might have a clear picture.