FC Barcelona’s efforts to resolve the contract of Frenkie de Jong have reached a pivotal moment with urgent talks underway.
FC Barcelona is ramping up efforts to tidy up its financial situation for next season, chiefly by reducing the wage bill to sign players.
The intended departures of Ansu Fati and Clement Lenglet are taken as a given, as is the future of important squad players.
In particular, they must consider the contract of Frenkie de Jong.
This operation combines sporting and financial importance to the club.
According to Diario Sport, Barcelona is adamant that De Jong’s contract situation is resolved before June 30 and talks toward a new deal are continuing; though it is a complicated process to be sure, given the possible salary deferrals in discussions.
Barcelona have highlighted De Jong’s ongoing commitment to the club as a reason for optimism, but recently appointed sporting director, Deco, has been clear that the club wants to avoid seeing players entering the last year of their contracts in uncertainty, except De Jong.
His key role in Hansi Flick’s system guarantees his place next season, regardless of whether they have a new deal, but the club does wish for wage structure changes to resolve a broad financial problem.
Flick has only enhanced De Jong’s loyalty to Barcelona.
The German coach offered De Jong a leading role last summer, and he has brought that promise to fruition, supporting De Jong in a strong finish to the season and aiding his development.
This run of form has changed De Jong’s perspective after several years of struggles, and both parties acknowledge their responsibility to reach an agreement before his existing contract progresses towards expiry so Barcelona can ensure the stability necessary to continue their ambitions.
The successful outcome not only guarantees one of the strongest players, but it also gives the club valuable planning in their budget, ensuring they fight for the most noteworthy trophies under Flick’s belief.
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