Luis Suarez’s stunning form for Barcelona warrants a new contract, according to the club’s former president Joan Gaspart.

The Uruguayan, who turns 32 in January, has scored nine times in La Liga this season, including a sensational hat-trick in the 5-1 destruction of Real Madrid and a vital double in Saturday’s 3-2 win over Rayo Vallecano.

Suarez has outlined his importance to the side in the absence of injured icon Lionel Messi.

And Gaspart is adamant a new contract should be offered with Suarez’s current terms running until 2021.

“I love what Luis Suarez has been saying, he is a great player and a sensational person,” the former chief told Goal, in reference to recent comments where the player said he would “understand if Barca looked for a new striker”.

“Players are usually selfish, they usually think that they come first and if they start to slip over the years it is not their problem.

“I heard him and thought, damn, what a great guy! If I were president I would give him five more years on his contract and if he doesn’t play, it’s fine!”