Barcelona boss Joan Laporta has said that the Catalan side are still waiting to learn whether Sergio Busquets will sign a new contract at Camp Nou.
The 34-year-old's current terms with the La Liga outfit will expire at the end of June, and there remains widespread speculation surrounding his future.
A number of MLS clubs are believed to be determined to sign the former Spain captain, while there has also been suggestions of offers from Saudi Arabia.
Busquets is currently on the sidelines with an ankle problem, which could rule him out until next month.
However, he has again been a vital player for the Catalan outfit this season, featuring on 27 occasions in all competitions, including 18 outings in La Liga.
© Reuters
Laporta has admitted that it would be "difficult" for Barcelona to lose Busquets this summer, with the club still waiting to learn whether the Spaniard wants to continue at the club or seek pastures new.
"For now we are focused on La Liga. Sergio is an important player for us and it'll be difficult for our team's dynamics if he leaves," Laporta told reporters during a press conference.
"When he decides, we'll talk about it. Neither party considers that it's the moment. We had a meeting before Christmas because he had offers from the MLS."
Barcelona boss Xavi also recently commented on the future of his former teammate, claiming that he would be "delighted" if the midfielder decided to sign a new deal.
© Reuters
"In the end, we all work together and the decision is his. We are waiting to see what he decides. He is a very important person inside and outside, he is the captain," Xavi told reporters.
"He is part of everything and he has earned the right to decide his future. If he can continue, I'd be delighted."
Only Lionel Messi (778) and Xavi (767) have played more times for Barcelona than Busquets, with the midfielder representing the Catalan outfit on 707 occasions in all competitions.
The midfielder picked up his ankle injury in the early stages of the clash with Sevilla last time out, and he is set to miss both legs of his side's upcoming Europa League knockout round playoff with Manchester United.
Matt Law
