Barcelona have told Frenkie de Jong that their relationship must be long-term, or he can pack his bags. The Dutchman’s future is back under the microscope this summer, as the Blaugrana again look to slash their wage bill for second summer in a row.
De Jong, 26, is their highest earner currently, and set to earn similar next year, while his deal finishes in 2026. Desperate to see him reduce, or at least spread out his wages more, and give themselves some security over his contract situation, Barcelona have made a renewal offer that de Jong has not responded to. If he does want to stay though, they want to speed up talks.
🚨 Roberto's renewal is still on the table. Barça are satisfied with how he fulfils his role as a captain, especially in the dressing room. If the next coach counts on him, his willingness to renew for one more season will be total. @Jordigil pic.twitter.com/FRJgslam3c
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) February 13, 2024
On the contrary, if de Jong is not convinced by the project or a new contract, they have made it clear he must bring in a major offer to leave this summer. They believe he is worth at least €100m, given Chelsea spent more than that on the likes of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, according to MD.
For the Dutchman, he will be in little hurry to do anything. Currently he is holding all of the cards, and if he is considering an exit, it won’t necessarily benefit him to seek a large offer this summer. That said, if de Jong does not seek an exit, but does not want to reduce his wages, he risks a second media campaign to force him out of the club, as happened two summers ago.
