There has been a change of plans at Barça that nobody expected. Despite being one of the stars of the basketball section, Jabari Parker will not continue next season. The American had a contract in force until 2026, but, barring a radical turn, his next team will be in Serbia, having reached a contractual agreement to wear the Partizán jersey.
The Greek outlet SDNA has reported that Jabari Parker has a two-season agreement with Partizán. The power forward will pocket five million euros during that period, a figure higher than what it had agreed with Barça.
Jabari Parker to Partizán: Pending one detail
At this time, the deal is not closed yet. The only thing Parker needs to head to Partizán is to reach a termination agreement with Barça. He has one year left on his contract and there has been some frustration with the staff led by Peñarroya this past season. The American has not been very happy with its role on the team in the final phase of another trophyless campaign at Palau blaugrana.
Although Jabari Parker has always been pointed out as an essential part of Barcelona, the truth is that both parties want to go their separate ways. Considering the economic problems of the basketball section, Joan Laporta has not put up any obstacles to negotiate and reach a deal with Partizán.
One aspect considered essential in Parker's departure is that it will free up a non-EU spot. In addition, it will be a great relief in terms of salary, freeing up just over 2 million gross (just over 2 million euros), giving room to maneuver for the redesign of the roster.
Many changes at Barça
Jabari Parker's departure will allow other key positions in the roster to be reinforced. The plan now is to sign a lower-profile power forward to replace it, allocating much of the budget to an important center. There is also consideration of reinforcing the small forward position, provided the retirement of captain Álex Abrines is confirmed.
This is (once again) a summer of many changes in the basketball section. Barça is still struggling to get going and its economic problems are not helping. Jabari Parker's departure will be a tough blow for Palau, as it is one of the great idols of the fans. It remains to be seen how the blaugrana squad will finally look for next season.