Barcelona midfield talisman continues to ignore club’s attempts to renew his contract | OneFootball

FC Barcelona’s relationship with Frenkie de Jong has wavered considerably over the years. At the heart of all the rising tensions has been one determining factor: finances.

In 2022, the Catalan giants were eager to offload the Dutchman in a bid to free up salary margin and generate some much-needed funds. De Jong’s insistence to stay put eventually worked out as he played a crucial role in the club’s quest for La Liga glory.

However, this summer Barça and De Jong are back in familiar territory. With the player’s wages expected to receive a major surge this coming season, he will become the highest-paid player on the team.

That predicament worries the Barcelona hierarchy deeply, given the club’s ongoing issues in restoring financial stability.

Since De Jong’s contract expires in 2026, this summer is Barca’s last chance to secure a significant fee for him. If they wait until next year, they might only get a reduced amount, or he could leave for free in 2026.

Frenkie de Jong not budging

De Jong’s contract expires in 2026. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Now, according to Javi Miguel, De Jong is ignoring the management’s calls to renew his contract and may leave next summer for a low price.

Initially, when the summer transfer window swung open, Barcelona hoped to cash in on the Dutch midfielder.

However, his persistent injuries and extended absence due to an ankle sprain he picked up in April have dissuaded potential buyers.

The Catalan giants are thus stuck in a tight spot. Attempts to renew his contract, albeit with a reduced salary, have been made for months now but there has been total silence from the player’s end.

Barcelona remains puzzled and tight-lipped about the situation. However, it seems clear that De Jong will stay at the club this season.

For now, Barcelona are hoping that the player’s ankle injury does not develop into something serious and that he is available for the start of the season.