FC Barcelona suspects that midfielder Frenkie de Jong is intentionally stalling contract renewal discussions. There are concerns he may be planning to depart the club without any transfer fee.
This information comes from a report by SPORT, which cites an unnamed source from Catalunya Radio.
De Jong’s move to Barcelona from Ajax in 2019, supported by ex-president Josep Bartomeu, was seen as a significant achievement.
Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City were competing for the talented midfielder, who had a strong performance in the 2018/2019 Champions League with Ajax. Despite Erik ten Hag leaving Manchester United, De Jong’s situation at Barcelona under Hansi Flick is still unknown.
Reports suggest that Barcelona believes De Jong may be delaying a contract decision in order to leave for free when his current deal ends on June 30, 2026.
Despite this concern, Flick considers De Jong to be crucial, as seen in his recent inclusion in the starting lineup against Red Star Belgrade in a 5-2 Champions League win.
Barcelona’s financial difficulties indicate that the upcoming summer transfer window in 2025 could be their final opportunity to receive a transfer fee if De Jong decides not to extend his contract.
