Barcelona have halted contract negotiations with soon-to-be free agent Sergi Roberto, according to a report.

The versatile 30-year-old has less than six months left to run on his existing deal at Camp Nou and has been linked with moves to Arsenal and Manchester City.

Blaugrana boss Xavi has publicly stated his desire to keep Roberto at the club but also acknowledged that Barcelona's financial situation would be a key factor in negotiations.

Now, Marca claims that Barca are instead prioritising fresh terms for other players, and contract talks with Roberto have therefore been placed on hold for the time being.

The report adds that Roberto will have to accept a salary decrease if he does remain in Catalonia, and Barca will inform the Spaniard and his agent when they are ready to table an offer.

Roberto has only made 12 appearances in all competitions this season due to injury, scoring two goals and setting up one more in La Liga. body check tags ::