Barcelona officially terminates Oriol Romeu’s contract after loan to Girona

Midfielder becomes a free agent after a discreet contract termination, freeing space in the Catalan club’s squad.
Barcelona Confirms Exit
Barcelona confirmed this week the official departure of Oriol Romeu, 32, whose contract was terminated shortly before the close of the transfer window. The discreet process, described by the Catalan press as a “phantom termination”, allows the midfielder to join another club as a free agent even with the market closed.
Failed Return to Camp Nou
Formed at La Masia, Romeu returned to Barcelona in 2023 after excelling at Girona. Initially seen as a possible replacement for Sergio Busquets, he failed to live up to expectations. The midfielder lost space during the season and was loaned back to Girona before leaving permanently.
Romeu had built most of his career abroad, notably at Chelsea, where he won the Champions League, and in the Premier League.
Financial Relief and Squad Registration
The player’s exit opens salary space and helps Barcelona in its efforts to keep finances under control while meeting La Liga’s registration rules.
With Romeu’s departure, the club managed to register Gerard Martín, a defensive reinforcement. Meanwhile, young talent Roony Bardghji still awaits his official registration despite the window having closed.