Barcelona Transfer News: Sergio Busquets Contract Set to End Chelsea Rumours

Barcelona are ready to offer Sergio Busquets a new contract in order to quash speculation linking the midfielder with a move to Chelsea or Manchester United.

Jamie Anderson of the Daily Express believes the Blaugrana "will improve on Busquets' £65,000 per-week wages to secure his long-term future."

The Spanish midfielder remains a key player for Barca, despite numerous managerial changes over the last few seasons. Busquets is an expert at controlling the side's tempo in the centre, breaking up play with effective tackles and spreading possession to ignite attacking moves.

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He signed a three-year extension in August 2013, telling Barca TV: "To be in the best club in the world is a dream come true, this is the club of my life. I'm very happy."

Barca's current transfer ban perhaps makes it easier for Busquets to stay, as manager Luis Enrique won't be able to replace the midfielder until January 2016.

Even so, with little over a year left on his current contract, it's a wise move to ensure he renews. Barca risk losing Busquets on a free at the conclusion of the 2015-16 campaign if they don't avidly extend his tenure. His value during next winter's transfer window would also significantly decrease if pen isn't put to paper.

Anderson's report indicates things are progressing as normal, though. Busquets' qualities are highlighted below:

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho would have to sacrifice either Nemanja Matic or Cesc Fabregas in his midfield to find room for Busquets, while the 26-year-old would be the natural heir to Michael Carrick if he rocked up at Old Trafford. Busquets' commitment has never waned, and there's the real possibility he will reside at the Camp Nou for the majority of his career.

He remains a constant at the club—someone whom success has been built upon since his debut in 2008. Players of Busquets' ilk provide the backbone for Lionel Messi, Neymar and others to excel, making him invaluable to Barcelona's ongoing efforts to attain silverware.