Barcelona star considering Premier League move after contract expired ahead of deadline

Barcelona's former captain Sergi Roberto is reportedly keen on moving to the Premier League after failing to sign a new contract.

Roberto came through the famed La Masia academy before making the grade at Barcelona, going on to make 373 appearances and winning seven La Liga titles.

He became skipper following Sergio Busquets' departure but became a free agent on 30 June after a messy contract situation.

Barca wanted to extend Roberto's stay at the club and he too was prepared to remain, agreeing to the financial terms proposed back in May.

The plan was for the Spain international to sign for another season because of financial fair play constraints, Barca could not register him immediately.

Instead, if he put to pen to paper, the registration could not be approved until August 10.

Having set a deadline of July 10 for the situation to be ironed out, Roberto grew impatient and did not sign a deal - ultimately departing Blaugrana after 14 years.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the 32-year-old has therefore been entertaining offers.

Image: Getty

He has reportedly already turned down a switch to the Saudi Pro League, though he could have the option of remaining La Liga with Sevilla, Valencia, and Girona all registering interest.

However, Roberto is believed to be attracted to the prospect of a challenge abroad and likes the idea of playing in the Premier League.

No specific clubs have been mentioned but Roberto is weighing up offers and desperate to join a team where he can make a "significant impact" at this stage of his career.

Roberto, who has been with Barca since he was a teenager, is a midfielder by trade but was transformed into a right-back.

Image: Getty

He is best known for scoring the dramatic last minute winning goal in the Champions League comeback win over Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.