According to a report from Marca, it has been revealed that Barcelona star Ousmane Dembele’s release clause is only £42 million. It is understood that the Frenchman extended his contract at Camp Nou but this arrangement was agreed upon because Dembele didn’t receive a signing bonus and his agents didn’t collect a large commission when the new contract was finalised.
Dembele’s Run Of Form For Barcelona This Season
Dembele has found his place at Barcelona after his current run of form which has little to do with anything that has come in his previous seasons. He has found the back of the net on two occasions and also produced four assists over 8 appearances so far across all fronts.
The French international has become a reliable performer under Xavi after averaging 3.2 shots, 3.0 key passes and 1.5 dribbles per game in La Liga. He has also been accurate with his ball distribution after completing 82.4 % of his attempted passes in the Spanish top flight (stats via whoscored).
Should Xavi Be Concerned With The Release Clause?
Dembele was on the verge of an exit from Camp Nou last season as he lacked the game time and hardly got the chance to express himself in the frontline. The uncertainty around his departure was cleared away after the French forward put pen to paper on a new contract that expires in 2024. However, with the release clause of £42 million, it could be a real problem in the next transfer window, should the other clubs approach him with a lucrative offer.
The winger had only begun to show some good form under Ronald Koeman when he received a few chances in the right flank last season but under Xavi Hernandez, he has found his best form since arriving in Catalonia. A player of such talent and quality would add to the attacking prowess of the Catalan giants but that could be said for the European giants as well.
It would come as no surprise if Dembele garners attention in the January transfer window or the next Summer transfer window from various clubs struggling in their respective leagues. Xavi would be wise to take him in confidence, given that the clubs could directly initiate the release clause and go on to negotiate with the France international which could see him exit Camp Nou if regular game time is offered with a decent wage.
