Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman has opened the door to joining Barcelona next year by confirming a specific clause in his contract.
According to a report in Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo last month, director of the Dutch FA Nico-Jan Hoogma revealed an option in Koeman's contract to join the Blaugrana next summer.
Hoogma confirmed in an interview back in September that Koeman does have a clause in his contract that would allow him to leave for Barcelona.
He stated that whilst Koeman's current deal with La Oranje runs until 2022, he has a clause which would allow him to join the La Liga champions after the European Championships – should they make a move for him.
He also indicated that there would be a release clause in place for such a deal, although declined to comment on the details of it, but confirmed that it applies solely to Barcelona.
“I found it unfortunate that it was brought to light. I'm not angry, but we [Koeman along with Hoogma] talked about it," told Fox Sports Netherlands, as cited by ESPN FC.
“A white lie can sometimes be good. I tell them from time to time.
“(However), I can safely say that I will not leave my position as coach [of the Dutch national team] for any club [before the European Championships].
“[The clause] is only relevant to Barcelona and it only comes into play after the European Championships. I am not leaving now, that is 100% certain.
“After the European Championships, there is an evaluation moment and, who knows, maybe the KNVB will say: 'We have performed so badly at the Euros, we are not going to continue together.' But I also have the opportunity to leave for one club. And there's only one club [included in the clause].”
Koeman made 192 appearances as a Barcelona player, between 1989 and 1995, winning four La Liga titles and a European Cup in 1992.
Before returning as assistant to to Louis Van Gaal between 1998 and 2000, winning another league title in the process.
