Gerard Pique's agent has revealed the defender has held 'informal talks' with Barcelona over a new contract.
The former Manchester United player is under contract until 2012 but he is regarded so highly that Barca are keen to tie him to an extension.
The terms of the new deal would reportedly see his buyout clause rise from 50million euros to 150million euros and keep him at Camp Nou for a further two years.
Barca president Joan Laporta announced last week that negotiations were set to begin and the 22-year-old's representative Arturo Canales claims tentative discussions have now taken place with sporting director Txiki Begiristain.
"There has been informal contact with Begiristain about this subject but formally we don't have anything yet to consider," said Canales.
Laporta is keen to secure the future of a youngster who has already started to fulfil his potential.
"The next player in to sign a new deal will be Pique because he deserves it," said Laporta.
"Today Gerard is one of the best central defenders in the world."
Donovan inks new deal with GalaxyBarca want Guardiola extension
