Barcelona unmoved by €45m player’s renewal delay | OneFootball

Over the last few months, contract renewals have proven to be a massive priority for FC Barcelona. While many operations have been sorted out, Frenkie de Jong’s renewal is yet to be finalised. However, the club does not seem to be in a hurry.

That is because, according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona and De Jong are on the same page in principle. Both parties have expressed publicly and privately their desire to continue together, and the Dutchman remains a starter under Hansi Flick. However, weeks are passing without a deal being finalised, and the reasons are clear.

Agent dispute delaying talks

The main stumbling block is De Jong’s ongoing split from his long-time agent, Ali Dursun. The two reportedly have a binding agreement until 2026, which is making the separation complicated.

If not resolved, any commission from a renewal would still go to Dursun, and that is something De Jong wants to avoid. This legal and contractual tangle has effectively put talks on ice.

Barcelona feel well-covered in midfield

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While the Catalans would like to keep the €45 million-rated Dutchman, they do not feel dependent on the outcome of his renewal. The club believes his position is well-stocked with quality and depth.

Gavi, fresh from injury, has enjoyed a strong pre-season and brings elite pressing and ball-winning skills in the pivot role. Marc Casado impressed last season and earned Flick’s trust when Frenkie was sidelined. Marc Bernal, still just 18, is nearing full recovery from an ACL injury and was a starter at 17 before the setback.

Given this abundance of talent, the Blaugranes are confident they could cope if De Jong does not renew, even if he leaves on a free transfer in 2026.

His salary also remains a major concern for Barcelona

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Finances are another decisive factor. Frenkie currently earns a salary the club considers above market value for his role. Barça’s renewal offer covers this season plus two more, but on reduced terms.

If he accepts, the club will be pleased. If not, they will walk away without regret. The priority is to maintain sustainable wage structures, not to meet inflated demands out of fear of losing a player for nothing.

No rush to decide

With his contract still valid until June 2026, Barça are in no rush to push for a resolution. The club’s stance is pragmatic: if Frenkie renews on their terms, great; if not, they are prepared to move on with the options already in place. What they will not do is force through a renewal at any cost.

In essence, Barça’s position is calm and calculated, a far cry from the panic that often surrounds the potential loss of a key starter. For now, they are content to let the situation play out and know that whichever way it goes, they are well-equipped for the future.