Barcelona’s deteriorating relationship with Nike has been well-documented over the past few months.
Even club president Joan Laporta has publicly confirmed that there are cracks in the partnership, which started way back in 1998.
Laporta confirmed that Barcelona are underpaid by Nike as compared to current market values. The club are also unhappy with the services provided by Nike.
Barcelona’s problems with Nike have put Puma on red alert, with the German giants keen on securing a deal with the Catalans.
Barcelona host meeting with Nike
Amid such uncertainty, Barcelona representatives hosted an important meeting with Nike officials on Tuesday night, reports Jijantes (h/t Mundo Deportivo).
The two parties met at a well-known restaurant in the city, with Barcelona being represented by President Joan Laporta and vice-president Rafa Yuste.
The report adds that Nike are well aware of Puma’s interest. As such, the American apparel giants have raised their offer to maintain the relationship with Barcelona.
As mentioned earlier, Barcelona and Nike’s partnership go way back, but the club have raised issues regarding the valuation of the contract.
The deal between Barcelona and Nike does not expire until 2028. However, Barcelona do have several instruments which they can use to terminate the contract before that period.
Well aware of the instruments, and the interest from Puma, Nike’s main motive to hold this important meeting in Barcelona was to mete out any differences and get negotiations back on track.
It now remains to be seen whether or not Barcelona are keen on maintaining the partnership with Nike and are happy with the company’s new terms.
