Barcelona heavyweight’s agent shoots down Saudi Arabia rumours, hints at contract renewal | OneFootball

Just a while ago, AS reported that Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong’s agent, Ali Dursun, was in contact with clubs from the Saudi Arabia Pro League.

The 27-year-old finds himself in a difficult position at Barça, considering that he has lost weight in the squad this season, falling behind players like Marc Casado, Pedri, Gavi, and Dani Olmo in the pecking order.

Furthermore, with his contract situation still in a deadlock, De Jong’s future at Barcelona beyond this season has become a big question mark.

Amidst this, the report from AS suggested that Dursun had made inquiries with clubs from the Saudi Pro League about the progress of the competition as well as the customs and day-to-day life of the country.

Dursun shuts down rumours

Soon after the report emerged, though, De Jong’s agent, Ali Dursun shut down the speculation stating that the reports were false and the midfielder is not exploring a potential move to Saudi Arabia.

In fact, the Dutchman’s representative went on to suggest that a renewal with Barcelona might be on the cards as the player is happy and settled where he is.

“The reports about a possible move to Saudi Arabia are complete nonsense. And it distracts Frenkie from what he really wants: shining at the club that he loves the most and where he feels at home,” Dursun confirmed to De Telegraaf.

What does the future hold for De Jong? (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

“And who knows, maybe we [Barça/Frenkie] stay together for a longer time…,” he added.

As mentioned above, De Jong’s contract situation has become an issue as his current deal expires in 2026 and progress over an extension has not been made.

The Blaugrana intend to renew his contract but at a lower salary than he currently earns and had even sent him an offer months ago which the midfielder did not respond to.

It has given way to suspicion within the club that the player might be planning to leave as a free agent when his deal runs out in 2026.

As such, an ultimatum has been issued to De Jong that he either renews his contract or accepts getting placed on the transfer market next summer.

But his agent’s comments suggest that a renewal might not be out of the question.