Frenkie de Jong's situation has taken an unexpected turn in recent months. The Dutch midfielder, who arrived at FC Barcelona in 2019 as one of the club's major investments, has experienced a period of ups and downs. After several physical problems and the lack of agreement for his renewal, his future seemed uncertain, but now his destiny is clearer than ever.
From Barça's sports management, they see his sale as a key opportunity to balance the books and reduce the wage bill. Although Hansi Flick has given him an important role in the team, his continuity wasn't assured, and the Premier League has come knocking at his door again.
Frenkie de Jong, Between Renewal and Farewell
Initially, the player had expressed his intention to remain at Camp Nou. But negotiations with the club have become more complicated than expected. His salary remains a problem in Barça's financial management, which seeks to adjust its accounts to comply with Financial Fair Play.
Although De Jong has shown some willingness to modify his contractual conditions, a point of agreement hasn't been reached. Meanwhile, several Premier League clubs have reactivated their interest, with offers that could entice both the player and the blaugrana entity.
One of the teams that has been most insistent on acquiring the Dutchman's services is Liverpool. With a squad in full restructuring, the English club needs to strengthen its midfield with a player of proven quality.
The new Reds coach, Arne Slot, believes that De Jong would fit perfectly into his game plan. Therefore, the English board has made a formal offer of 35 million euros to try to secure his signing in the next market.
However, from the culé leadership, they consider the figure insufficient. The club's intention is to obtain at least 50 million euros, an amount that would allow investment in new reinforcements for Flick's squad.
Deco and Laporta, in Search of a Better Offer
Barça's sporting director, Deco, doesn't rule out Frenkie's departure, but he isn't willing to let him go for a price lower than expected. If a renewal isn't reached in the coming months, the club might be forced to accept a lower offer to avoid the player leaving for free.
One of the factors that may influence the final decision is De Jong's relationship with Flick. The German coach has bet on him in recent weeks, giving him a key role in his system. If the Dutchman feels he is an essential piece in the new project, he might consider staying and renegotiating his contract.
However, if Barça finds a substitute in the market and Liverpool's offer comes close to their expectations, his departure could be accelerated.
The Release Clause, a Double-Edged Sword
If Frenkie de Jong decides to extend his contract with Barça, the club could include in his new agreement a release clause close to 1,000 million euros. This would secure his continuity and make any Premier League attempt to sign him more difficult.
On the contrary, if an agreement isn't reached before the end of the season, Barça will have to make a quick decision to avoid losing him without financial compensation.
Everything indicates that the resolution of the Frenkie de Jong case will come in the coming weeks. If negotiations don't progress, Barça will be forced to listen to offers and make a determination before the start of the new campaign.
Liverpool remains in pole position, but other English clubs are keeping an eye on the situation. Deco and Joan Laporta have a crucial decision in their hands, which will mark the course of the blaugrana midfield in the coming years.