Marc Bartra has decided to remain with Barcelona despite struggling for regular action last term, according to reports in Spain.
Bartra appeared to suggest he was open to a summer move away after he confirmed he could leave for just €12million following Spain’s recent friendly against Costa Rica.
The clause in the defender’s contract for the cut-price release fee was activated due to the fact he didn’t play enough games for the Catalan giants last term.
However, Spain boss Vicente del Bosque has apparently assured the 24-year-old that he will continue to select him for La Roja and as such Bartra has decided to remain at Camp Nou and fight for first-team football.
Barcelona were understood to be keen to hold on to the Catalan native but he faces a big task to establish himself as a regular in Luis Enrique’s starting line-up regardless.
Gerard Pique, Javier Mascherano and Jeremy Mathieu are all ahead of him in the pecking order for a spot at centre-half and when Thomas Vermaelen returns from injury he could find himself as the Spanish and European champion’s fifth choice.
Meanwhile, Barcelona continue to be linked with Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba and Italian publication La Gazzetta dello Sport say they have met with the Serie A champions to discuss a potential transfer.
It has been suggested the clubs will agree terms this summer, but Pogba, also a target for Manchester City, could remain with Juve for next season due to Barcelona’s current transfer embargo.
Barca are 1.67 to win the La Liga title outright next season, while Real Madrid can be backed at 2.38.
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