FC Barcelona have postponed a decision regarding it shirt sponsor as the club holds out for a better deal from Qatar Airways.
The Spanish club are reportedly seeking a deal with Qatar Airways worth an estimated $290 million over four years, as they look to extend the current agreement with the airline beyond the 2016/17 season.
Club president Josep Maria Bartomeu, speaking at the club’s General Assembly, told supporters that FC Barcelona would like to extend its relationship with the Doha-based carrier.
“We have agreed to continue our negotiations with Qatar Airways. We now have a bit more time. The dialogue with Qatar is ongoing, and there is a clear willingness from both sides,” Bartomeu said.
“We’re happy with the deal that has been in place for the last few years. The negotiations will continue, as we seek to reach the agreement which we are both deserving of. Please don’t worry, because we certainly are not,” he added.
FC Barcelona were expected to ask members to vote on passing a four-year deal with Qatar Airways worth just over $72 million (€65m) at the General Assembly, but talks broke down last week and officials will sit down once more in the coming weeks to try and agree new terms.
FC Barcelona announced record revenue and a record wage bill at the AGM, with the club earning a record $660 million (€600m) in 2014-15 season, but had to pay out $63 million in player bonuses.
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