Frenkie de Jong’s Complex Journey with Barcelona
When Frenkie de Jong transferred from Ajax to FC Barcelona in 2019 for €75 million, he was hailed as the future midfield maestro — technically skilled, composed under pressure, and expected to continue the legacy of Xavi and Iniesta. While his performances have been largely solid, his time at Barça has been clouded by financial troubles, contract issues, and persistent transfer rumors.
Controversy Over Contract Renewal
In October 2020, during the COVID-19 financial crisis, then-president Josep Maria Bartomeu extended De Jong’s contract until 2026, deferring parts of his salary. This arrangement meant lower wages early on but a significant pay increase later, intended to ease the club’s immediate financial strain.
When Joan Laporta took over in 2021, the new board questioned the legality and fairness of these deals, including De Jong’s. They suggested Bartomeu’s administration might have mishandled contracts and considered legal action, though nothing materialized.
Summer 2022: Potential Forced Exit?
By 2022, Barcelona urgently needed to balance finances. De Jong’s future salary commitments (around €18 million deferred) became a burden. The club sought to sell him, with Manchester United, managed by Erik ten Hag, keen on reuniting.
Despite an agreed transfer fee near €85 million, De Jong refused to leave, stating his desire to remain and honor his contract, especially since he was still owed back wages.
2023–2024: Continued Uncertainty
De Jong remained key under coach Xavi, but financial woes persisted. For the 2024/25 season, he is one of the highest earners at Barça. Rumors of another possible departure surfaced amid the club’s rebuilding efforts.
His contract lasts until 2026, but no new agreement has been reached. The club might consider selling him again if finances worsen.
Current Situation (2025)
- De Jong is still committed but reportedly unhappy with treatment during transfer negotiations.
- No wage reduction or contract extension has been finalized, though informal discussions continue.
- Interested clubs include Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and PSG, but De Jong’s loyalty and financial stake make a transfer difficult without his full consent.
Summary
Frenkie de Jong’s story at Barcelona goes beyond football — it’s about loyalty challenged by financial mismanagement, contractual disputes, and a player standing firm under pressure. Whether he renews or departs, his Barcelona tenure remains one of the most complex and talked-about periods in recent club history
