Director of international football Jordi Cruyff has acknowledged that handling Ousmane Dembele's contract situation has 'not been easy' for Barcelona.

During the January transfer window, the Catalan giants tried and failed to part ways with the Frenchman, who has shown an unwillingness to extend his contract past the end of the season.

Xavi has continued to involve the 24-year-old in his squad, the winger contributing one goal and five assists in eight appearances since the start of February.

When quizzed on the matter, Cruyff preferred to talk up Dembele's performances rather than going into too much detail regarding his future.

Cruyff is quoted by Sport as saying: "The situation regarding Dembele's renewal is not easy. I think the most important thing is that he continues to help the team and the rest will be seen.

"He has played a good game, like many players who end their contract with the future already done and others who are looking for a better contract. That he continues helping the team to achieve the maximum objectives and the rest we cannot control."

In total, Dembele has made 18 appearances in all competitions this season, half of which have come from the starting lineup. body check tags ::