FC Barcelona has once again tried what they haven't achieved in two years: convincing Frenkie de Jong to renew his contract. The Dutchman remains one of the most influential players in the locker room and with the most media impact. But also, one of the biggest headaches for Joan Laporta.
De Jong arrived in 2019 for 86 million euros from Ajax. At the time, he was the signing that symbolized the new Barça post-Iniesta and post-Xavi. Today, he is the footballer with the most exorbitant salary at the club... and the most difficult to negotiate.
His contract ends in 2026, but Barça can't wait any longer to make a decision.
The Board Presses: Renewal or Departure
Joan Laporta and Deco have already made their stance clear. If De Jong doesn't renew with new conditions, offers will be heard this summer. They don't want another "Dembélé case."
The problem is not only sporting, it's financial. Frenkie earns nearly 20 million gross per season, and his salary is simply unsustainable for the club's current economy.
In Deco's office, there is a priority: renew by lowering the fixed salary and increasing bonuses. But the player's response hasn't been the desired one.
The Dutchman has already rejected up to three formal renewal proposals. Barça has offered to extend the contract until 2028, with a new staggered salary format. Less fixed money, more incentives for matches, minutes, and titles.
The idea appealed to his entourage. But not to him. Frenkie doesn't trust the sporting project and believes that his performance isn't valued as it should be.
His reaction to the latest proposal has made it clearer than ever.
A Gesture That Says It All
In private, according to sources close to the locker room, the midfielder was blunt: "It's a shitty offer." That clear. Not just economically, but because of the way the club has managed his case over the years.
He feels singled out by the board, used as a symbol of past spending and mismanagement. Although he likes the city and the team, he isn't willing to accept just any condition.
The relationship between De Jong and the club is at its worst moment.
Barça already assumes that Frenkie won't renew. Deco has started to make contacts in the Premier League, where he still has a reputation. Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea are alert.
The player doesn't rule out leaving either. He knows his clause remains high, but if an offer of about 60-70 million comes in, Barça will accept it. Everything points to next summer being definitive.
Frenkie has made it clear that either his conditions are respected... or he'll pack his bags.
At Camp Nou, they've already started preparing the farewell.