"We are in negotiations" - Barcelona target's father confirms contract talks with current club
Barcelona target Tijjani Reijnders is in talks for a new contract with AC Milan, his father Martin Reijnders has confirmed. The 26-year-old has been outstanding for the Rossoneri this season and is being closely monitored by the Catalans.
Reijnders arrived at the San Siro in the summer of 2023, amid interest from the LaLiga giants, and enjoyed a stunning debut campaign. The Dutch midfielder registered four goals and as many assists from 50 outings across competitions for the Serie A giants.
He was a wanted man this summer, but Reijnders opted to stay with AC Milan. He has already registered three goals and set up two more from 12 games across competitions, forcing Barcelona to take note.
However, speaking recently as cited by Mundo Deportivo, his father stated that the player is working to extend his stay with the Italian giants.
“What a week for Tijjani! An unjustified red card against Udinese. Yesterday Man of the Match with two goals against Club Brugge, and as icing on the cake we are in negotiations with Milan for a new contract! That’s how fast things can go in football,” said Martin Reijnders.
The Dutch midfielder is under contract with AC Milan until 2028, but he could sign a new deal until 2030, with a significant pay hike. That would make it tougher for Barcelona to prise him away.
Will Barcelona sign a new midfielder in 2025?
Barcelona could be in the market for a new midfielder at the end of this season. Frenkie de Jong will enter the final year of his contract next summer and his future remains up in the air.
The 27-year-old missed much of the start of this season due to an ankle injury. De Jong returned to action for the LaLiga giants last month and has since appeared four times across competitions for the club. He was particularly impressive after coming on against Real Madrid last weekend, helping Barcelona cruise to a 4-0 win.
The Dutchman is a long-term target for Manchester United, who have previously failed to convince him to move. With Erik ten Hag gone from Old Trafford, the Red Devils could move on to alternate targets.
The Catalans, however, could be open to De Jong's exit. The Dutchman is among the biggest earners at Camp Nou and his departure could help address the club's financial situation. While the LaLiga giants are well-stocked in the middle of the park, they could be tempted to reinvest in the midfield if De Jong leaves.