Frenkie De Jong's Future Is Once Again in Question. Barça has presented him with new conditions for renewal, and if he doesn't accept, his departure this summer will be inevitable. His contract ends in June 2026, and the club doesn't want to start the next season without a decision made.
The management is clear: either he renews before the summer, or the exit door will be opened. Laporta isn't willing to repeat another "Dembélé case" with a player who arrived as a star and still hasn't met expectations 100%.
A Million-Dollar Signing That Never Fully Exploded
Frenkie De Jong arrived at Barça in the summer of 2019 from Ajax. The transfer cost 75 million euros plus 11 in variables. His signing excited all of Barcelona, but since then his performance has been as brilliant as it has been inconsistent.
Between injuries, coaching changes, and physical problems, De Jong hasn't managed to have the consistency expected of a player of his level. Although he has shown flashes of his talent, he has never become the midfield leader that was desired.
In this latest stage, the arrival of Hansi Flick has returned him to prominence. The German coach believes in his qualities and has given him confidence. The Dutchman has replied with good performances and more stable numbers: 32 matches played, 1538 minutes, 2 goals, and 2 assists.
But the economic reality rules. Barça can't continue paying more than 35 million euros a year between salary, amortizations, and deferrals. Frenkie De Jong has one of the heaviest contracts in the squad, and that takes a toll on the club in complying with Financial Fair Play.
Barça Proposes a 'Kevin Punter-Style' Contract
The club's idea is clear: apply the formula that has worked in the basketball section. Kevin Punter, the team's star, recently renewed by accepting a significant salary reduction in exchange for extending the duration of his contract. Joan Laporta wants the same with De Jong.
Barça is willing to renew the Dutchman until 2030, but with new economic conditions. The new agreement would involve a notable salary reduction that eliminates the current figures of the contract signed in 2020 with Bartomeu, which continues to affect the club's finances.
For the first time in many months, Frenkie De Jong seems open to talking. The sporting improvement with Flick and his important role in the team have made him reconsider. He is also aware that if he wants to stay at Barça, he must adapt to the new economic reality.
For more than a year, Deco tried to bridge the gap without success, the player didn't respond or show any intention of lowering his salary. But now, after his return and the coach's support, the feelings have changed. The renewal is no longer so far away.
Everything Will Be Decided In...
Laporta has been adamant: if there's no agreement before the end of the season, Barça will listen to offers. They won't allow De Jong to enter his last contract year without guarantees, and much less to leave for free in 2026.
In the coming weeks, both parties will continue negotiating, De Jong wants to stay, but he also wants to feel valued. Barça wants to retain him, but only if he fits into the new salary model. The midfielder's future will be solved very soon.