Frenkie de Jong’s situation at FC Barcelona has gone through several phases in recent months. Initially, the player seemed set on leaving, but then he made a complete U-turn and considered renewing his contract, which still has a year and a half remaining. However, the reality is that the midfielder has yet to sign a new deal, and if he doesn’t do so before the summer transfer window, the club will open the door for his departure. If he stays, he is aware that he may struggle for playing time.
In the match against Valencia, he played a key role and received widespread praise. His improved performances haven’t gone unnoticed in the dressing room, though the debate over Casadó’s role remains open. After starting the season injured, De Jong has regained his form and now appears to have secured a starting spot. Ahead of the Barça-Atlético match, Hansi Flick addressed the midfield selection dilemma between De Jong and Casadó with a tense response, dodging a direct answer:
“We have great quality in the squad, all the players are at their best and bring different qualities. We’ll decide tomorrow, not today.”
Flick prefers to focus on the collective and emphasized:
“We are a team, including the staff who wear these colors. We are like a family, which is the most important thing. Everyone knows their role. We have players who give their best, and we can see it. The entire squad is in excellent shape.”
Premier League Clubs Show Interest
At this moment, the most likely scenario remains an extension of De Jong’s contract with Barcelona, as the player is very happy at the club. However, renewal talks have been postponed, allowing De Jong and his agents to explore other options before making a decision.
Meanwhile, two powerful Premier League clubs have emerged as serious suitors: Liverpool and Arsenal.
- Liverpool, currently considered a Champions League favorite by AI predictions, is strongly interested in securing De Jong’s services next summer, according to CaughtOffside.
- Arsenal has also entered the race, with TBR Football reporting that the Gunners are keen on a move.
For Barcelona, this could be a tempting deal, as the club needs to free up salary space, and De Jong is one of the highest-paid players in the squad. Reports suggest that a transfer fee of around €35 million could be enough to facilitate a move.
Beyond the Premier League, Saudi Arabian clubs have also expressed interest, with two of the league’s biggest teams monitoring his situation. Additionally, Juventus is keeping close tabs on the Dutch midfielder.
Barcelona Sets Asking Price
Despite their desire to renew his contract, Barcelona is preparing for a potential sale given the high demand for De Jong. According to multiple sources, the club would only accept offers exceeding €40-50 million.
With Transfermarkt valuing De Jong at €45 million, Barcelona considers this a reasonable figure given his contract situation. At 27 years old, the midfielder is on an upward trajectory and has the confidence of Hansi Flick, but whether he stays or moves on will likely be decided in the summer transfer window.