(Raphinha. Photo by BeSoccer EN)

Barcelona has locked down their star captian, Raphinha, by extending his contract by 2 years.

He will now stay with the club until June 2030.

The La Liga champions announced the news on Thursday.

The 29 years old Brazilian forward joined the club in 2022, and his previous deal ran until 2028.

Barca called the move a declaration of intent, saying the captain will keep leading the team's project until 2030.

Raphinha said in September that he wanted to extend his stay and might even finish his career at the club.

He is enjoying a great season, scoring 19 goals and providing three assists in 13 matches across all competitions.

Raphinha took over the captaincy at the start of the season, after Ronald Araujo and Marc-Andre ter Stegen left the club.

He has also moved inside from the wing to fill the gap left by Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, who have also departed.

Since Hansi Flick took charge in 2024, Raphinha has been Barca's most dangerous forward.

He has helped the club win back to back La Liga titles.