FC Barcelona has already started preparing for the next transfer market, and one of the most delicate files on the table is Frenkie de Jong's. The Dutch midfielder is highly valued by Hansi Flick, but his contractual and salary situation is a concern in the offices.
De Jong's contract ends in June 2026, at first glance, there is still room. However, Barça doesn't want a repeat of the situation with other important players who ended up leaving for free or below their value. That's why the message has been clear: either he renews this summer, or an immediate exit will be sought for him.
A sporting pillar... with an out-of-scale contract
De Jong has been a starter whenever he has been available. Flick considers him a key footballer to build the game from the back. His ability to drive, filter passes, and provide balance to the team makes him very valuable in the German coach's system.
But his continuous injuries have cut that continuity. Above all, his salary—one of the highest in the locker room—has become an obstacle.
The Dutchman's salary is a direct inheritance from the previous board. Additionally, he accumulated deferrals during the pandemic, which increased his current cost for the club. Joan Laporta and Deco have been trying for some time to resize the team's wage bill, and De Jong remains outside that new framework.
The renewal, stalled for months
Barça has conveyed its desire to renew, but with a considerable reduction. De Jong's camp, however, is not willing to accept any conditions. They aspire to a contract in line with his status and consider that the club has not been entirely fair in its treatment of the player in recent years.
The conversations are stalled. At Barça, more and more, his sale is starting to be considered as a possible scenario. Not for lack of quality, but for the need for financial balance.
Frenkie remains a highly sought-after player. Manchester United has been inquiring about him for several seasons, and Chelsea is also closely following him. Both clubs could handle an operation close to 70 million euros, a figure that Barça wouldn't look unfavorably upon if a renewal agreement isn't reached.
With that money, the blaugrana club could activate other priority signings. Especially in attack and goalkeeping, two positions marked in red in Flick and Deco's planning.
The decision, before August
The board's goal is to solve De Jong's future before the end of July. They don't want to reach the preseason with uncertainties. If the player accepts a reduction and signs until 2029, he will continue to be one of the team's references.
If not, he will be transferred. It's that simple. There will be no half measures.
De Jong arrived in 2019 as one of the most exciting signings of the post-Messi project. He has left great moments, but he has also lived with doubts. His talent is indisputable, but Barça needs certainties, and above all, sustainability.
Flick wants him. Laporta does too, but the club can't mortgage its future for a single player. The ball is now in Frenkie's court, and time is running out.