According to a report from the Daily Mail UK, Barcelona are keen on extending Arturo Vidal’s contract for one more year.
The Chilean midfielder made a surprise £27million move from the Bundesliga Champions Bayern Munich last year on a three-year deal until 2021.
Upon joining the La Liga giants, Vidal didn’t have the best of the starts, as he was often sidelined by Ernesto Valverde, which made the Chilean feel a little ostracized.
After a brief consultation with the manager, the former Juventus star started to get playing time, initially as a substitute.
Soon, Vidal was able to find his footing, as his contributions led to praise from the Camp Nou faithful.
The 31-year-old has now played more than 40 matches this season, bagging 2 goals and 6 assists across all competitions.
Known for his tenacity and physicality on the field, he has formed a great partnership with fellow team-mates Ivan Rakitic and Sergio Busquets.
Valverde prefers Arthur Melo, another new signing for Barca this season, over Vidal. Despite taking the league by storm, the Brazilian youngster is still a little injury prone, which has led to more minutes for Vidal.
Vidal is a complete midfielder, one who always works a lot for the team. Furthermore, his traits are unique and difficult to find among his contemporaries.
And the Champions League semi-final clash against Liverpool was a perfect instance for the fans to witness his true colours. Vidal was a surprise starter in the game, beating the likes of Arthur, to everyone’s surprise.
But his extraordinary display showed, once again, why he has been a champion in every club he has played for.
From winning back possession to producing sliding tackles, the Reds found it difficult to handle Vidal.
He made 5 tackles, the most by any player on the pitch, including the crucial tackle to deny Sadio Mane’s goal scoring chance.
Barca eventually won the game 3-0 with goals from Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
Many fear that the arrival of Frenkie De Jong could hinder Vidal’s presence at Barca. The Blaugrana are due to receive the services of the Ajax midfielder from the start of the next season.
Nevertheless, the two time Copa America winner could still influence the La Liga winners.
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Citing his versatility, experience and grit, Valverde will always find a place for Vidal in the playing 11. At least, he could provide cover for the fellow midfielders.
It is undeniable that Vidal played a key role in Catalans winning their 26th La Liga title this season. The Blaugrana should not hesitate to keep such a player, who always works his heart out. Even Messi admitted that a player like Vidal could pull off anything for the team.
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