Barcelona sporting director Deco has confirmed that contract talks with Frenkie de Jong are ongoing, but a recent change in representation has delayed the process. The Dutch midfielder, whose current deal expires in June 2026, remains a key part of the club’s long-term plans, and both sides are optimistic about reaching an agreement.
🧠Deco’s Update
Speaking to Catalan outlet RAC1, Deco clarified the situation:
“We’re talking. Frenkie wants to stay. He sees he can compete for titles here. The change of agent slowed things down, but we’re aligned.”
De Jong recently parted ways with his long-time agent Ali Dursun, opting for a new team focused on commercial growth and long-term career planning. The transition has required Barcelona to restart parts of the negotiation process, including image rights and performance clauses.
📉 Contract History
De Jong joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2019 for €75 million and signed a six-year deal. That contract was later restructured during the club’s financial crisis in 2021, with deferred payments and wage reductions. The current extension talks aim to normalize his salary while extending his stay through 2029.
Barcelona are keen to avoid another drawn-out saga like the one that surrounded Lionel Messi’s exit or Ousmane Dembélé’s renewal. Deco emphasized that the club is “learning from past mistakes” and prioritizing transparency.
⚽ De Jong’s Role
Under manager Hansi Flick, De Jong has become indispensable. Operating as a deep-lying playmaker in a 4-3-3 system, he’s averaging 92 passes per game with a 94% completion rate. His ability to dictate tempo and break lines has made him a tactical anchor.
“Frenkie is one of the best midfielders in the world. He gives us balance,” Flick said after Barça’s 2–1 win over Real Sociedad.
With Gavi sidelined due to injury and Pedri still regaining form, De Jong’s leadership and consistency have been vital.
🧠Squad Planning Implications
Barcelona’s midfield rebuild hinges on De Jong’s renewal. The club has invested in young talents like Pablo Torre, Marc Casadó, and Joan GarcÃa, but none offer the same blend of composure and experience.
Renewing De Jong would also send a message to the squad and fanbase that the club is stabilizing after years of financial turbulence.
💰 Financial Considerations
Barcelona’s wage bill remains under scrutiny from La Liga’s financial control board. The club must balance De Jong’s salary demands with its broader budget, which includes renewals for Ronald Araújo, Jules Koundé, and Lamine Yamal.
Sources suggest De Jong’s new deal would include:
A base salary of €12 million/year
Performance bonuses tied to appearances and trophies
A loyalty clause through 2029
Commercial incentives linked to global branding
The club is also exploring a staggered payment structure to comply with La Liga’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
📊 De Jong’s 2025 Stats (All Competitions)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 11 |
| Pass Completion | 94% |
| Key Passes | 2.3/game |
| Tackles | 3.1/game |
| Assists | 3 |
| Goals | 1 |
His numbers reflect a player in peak form, and Barcelona are determined not to lose him.
🧠Fan Sentiment
Barça fans have rallied behind De Jong, with many calling him the “true captain” in Gavi’s absence. Social media campaigns urging the club to “Renew Frenkie Now” have gained traction, and supporters see him as a symbol of loyalty and resilience.
“He stayed when others left. He deserves respect and a proper deal,” one fan tweeted.
🧠What’s Next?
Negotiations are expected to resume in full after the international break. Barcelona hope to finalize the deal before the January window to avoid speculation and maintain squad focus.
Deco remains confident:
“We’re close. Frenkie wants to stay. We want him to stay. It’s just a matter of time.”
🧠Final Thoughts
Frenkie de Jong’s contract renewal is more than a financial transaction—it’s a strategic move that reflects Barcelona’s evolving identity. In a squad full of promise and transition, De Jong offers stability, leadership, and world-class quality. If the deal is completed, it will mark a turning point in Barça’s post-Messi rebuild—and reaffirm their commitment to building around players who believe in the project.
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