90min
·18 December 2024
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·18 December 2024
Barcelona have reportedly warned centre-back Ronald Araujo and midfielder Frenkie de Jong that they will be sold if they have not signed new contracts before the end of the season.
La Blaugrana are close to returning to La Liga's 1:1 spending rules - the ability to spend €1 for every €1 raised - and are now focusing on handing out new contracts to some of their most valuable players.
Gavi and Pedri have already agreed long-term extensions but, according to Relevo, there are some concerns when it comes to both Araujo and De Jong.
Both players are approaching the final 18 months of their contracts and Barcelona are said to have made it clear that they will not be allowed to enter the final year of their deals.
Araujo and De Jong have therefore been warned they must sign new contracts before June 30, 2025, or else they will be sold.
De Jong & Araujo have both been warned / Quality Sport Images/GettyImages
There have been mixed signals when it comes to the future of Araujo, with one report recently claiming there were fears the defender could leave on a free transfer. However, this latest report states there is optimism an extension will be agreed soon.
Araujo is known to be keen to stay at Barcelona and will be given a pay rise if he chooses to extend his deal.
As for De Jong, the Dutch midfielder has already allowed the offer of an extension, which included a salary deferral, to expire. Barcelona have made it clear he will not be given a pay rise and must instead accept a deal which will limit the impact of his current wage on the club's finances.
The biggest concern for Barcelona is losing either player for free. Both De Jong and Araujo can generate sizeable transfer fees and club officials have warned the pair that they will not be given forever to make a decision on their futures.