Barcelona open contract talks with ex-Man United target Frenkie De Jong | OneFootball

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has reaffirmed his desire to stay at the club, with negotiations now underway for a contract extension (h/t The Athletic).

De Jong’s current deal expires at the end of next season, but he is keen to extend his association with the Spanish giants.

Barca have a policy of not letting players enter the final year of their contract without a renewal or a transfer, which is why they’re determined to tie De Jong to a new deal.

They sent initial proposals at the start of last year but didn’t receive a response from the midfielder’s representatives at the time.

However, talks have resumed, and all parties are now keen to wrap up a deal.

Contract negotiations are ongoing, but De Jong is happy in Barca and eager to maintain his place as a leader in a squad brimming with young talent.

After recovering from a serious ankle injury that kept him out for six months, De Jong has played 29 games across all competitions this season, returning two goals and an assist.

He has regained his place in Hansi Flick’s midfield, overtaking academy graduate Marc Casado in the pecking order.

De Jong has become an important figure in Barca’s dressing room, but his relationship with the club’s top brass wasn’t always smooth.

His contract became a hot topic when the club’s finances were scrutinised, especially because a portion of his salary had been deferred during the pandemic.

The situation became heated in 2022 when Barca tried pawning him off to Manchester United.

The Premier League giants offered around £63 million, which was more than enough to convince Barca to do business, but De Jong wouldn’t be forced out of the club.

With Barca’s financial troubles gradually disappearing, De Jong and the club are looking forward to a promising future together.