Barcelona initiate talks for contract renewal with Frenkie de Jong

By SABC Sport
19th August 2023

Barcelona have reportedly commenced negotiations with Frenkie de Jong, one of their esteemed captains, for a contract extension.

This development follows the successful conclusion of a new agreement with Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

This revelation emanates from SPORT's Sergi Capdevila, who asserts that the club aims to elongate De Jong's contract using a strategy similar to that employed for Ter Stegen, thereby bolstering their adherence to Financial Fair Play regulations.

Reports affirm that owing to De Jong's contentment within the club, the midfielder is inclined to arrive at a consensus, thereby enhancing the prospects of the contract's renewal.

De Jong presently occupies a position amongst the club's highest earners, a status acquired through his contract renewal in 2020. Notably, the Blaugrana earnestly attempted to transfer him during the prior summer. However, their endeavours proved futile as the Dutchman remained steadfast in his commitment to stay.

In the intervening period, the 26-year-old has undergone a transformation, ascending to the role of club captain and a consistent presence in coach Xavi Hernandez's starting line-up.

His existing contract with the Catalan giants remains effective until 2026, obviating any immediate jeopardy of his departure. Nonetheless, a prolonged extension and staggered salary structure would provide Barcelona with a pivotal advantage in the realm of Financial Fair Play.

Barcelona aspire to replicate the approach adopted during Ter Stegen's renewal while negotiating De Jong's new contract. The envisaged arrangement encompasses a temporary reduction in the Dutchman's salary during the initial years, offset by enhanced remuneration in the contract's latter stages.

This strategic move would augment the club's Financial Fair Play leeway for the ongoing season, thereby facilitating potential player acquisitions.

De Jong has previously voiced his desire for a long-standing association with Barcelona. Consequently, the likelihood of a consensus between the parties concerning the new contract appears promising.