Barcelona full-back Adriano agrees to extend deal until 2017 - but is overlooked for Arsenal clash

Barcelona's versatile defender Adriano Correia has committed his future to the Catalan outfit after agreeing to extend his current deal until 2017. The Brazilian full-back's contract was due to expire at the end of this season, but he has now opted to activate a clause in his deal that extends his stay for one further campaign – despite being left out of the Champions League squad for the last-16 second-leg match against Arsenal tonight (16 March).

The 31-year-old defender moved to Barcelona after six successful seasons with Sevilla, following in the footsteps of his compatriot Dani Alves. Adriano has since failed to secure a permanent place in first team at the Nou Camp, although he has become a valued back-up member for the squad due to his versatility. Playing mainly as a left-back, he can also feature on the right side and even in a more attacking role on the wings.

Even so, the Brazilian has been linked with a move away from Barcelona in recent times due to his lack of playing time under Luis Enrique. Adriano has started just four La Liga games this season and was left out of the 18-man squad for the Champions League clash with Arsenal. However, despite reports connecting him with a move to Roma, he has opted to stay at Barcelona for an additional 12 months.

"First team player Adriano Correia confirmed on Tuesday his decision to extend his contract with FC Barcelona by one season, as was the option in his current contract," the club have confirmed in an official statement. "The player is now committed to the club until 30 June 2017. FC Barcelona are delighted with the player's decision."

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