Barcelona are aiming to secure a new record-breaking kit deal that could nearly double the worth of their current contract with Nike, their long-standing partners.
Nike has been the producer of Barcelona kits since 1998, forming a strong association in the world of sports. However, their existing contract, signed in 2016, is set to end in 2028, raising doubts about a renewal.
This situation has prompted Barcelona to explore other possibilities to maximize revenue, especially as Nike appears to be cutting costs. Negotiations with Puma are reportedly underway, with the potential for a deal worth up to €300m (£257m) annually.
Reports suggest that Barcelona’s current Nike deal brings them €105m (£90m) per season, while rivals Real Madrid earn €120m (£103m) from their adidas partnership.
In addition to Puma, there have been links to Danish firm Hummel and New Balance as potential alternatives for Barcelona. President Joan Laporta has even hinted at the prospect of the club producing and selling its own kits.
Laporta recently criticized Nike for not fulfilling their obligations under the contract.
He stated, “We have some concerns and a situation that is not what we wanted. The operation has been deteriorating, we think they have breached the contract.”
Laporta mentioned three options: continuing with Nike, accepting market offers, or venturing into self-production through BLM (Barca Licensing & Merchandising).
