Barcelona inform star player their new contract offer has expired after failure to agree terms - Reports
Barcelona have informed Frenkie de Jong that their renewal offer for the player has expired. The Dutch midfielder will enter the final 18 months of his contract with the club in January and hasn't agreed to a new deal.
De Jong joined the Catalans in the summer of 2019 from Ajax as one of the rising stars of European football. The 27-year-old has been an integral part of the LaLiga giants' starting XI in recent years.
De Jong has registered 222 appearances across competitions for Barcelona to date, scoring 17 goals and setting up 21 more. He has won the league, the Spanish Supercup as well as the Copa del Rey.
There has been significant interest in his services over the years, especially from Manchester United. The Red Devils were apparently very close to securing his services under Erik ten Hag a couple of summers ago, but De Jong refused to leave.
The Dutch midfielder is highly rated by Hansi Flick, and the Catalans would ideally like him to extend his stay. The LaLiga giants offered him a renewed proposal at the end of 2023, but the player is yet to respond.
Barcelona presented a new deal that would keep him at Camp Nou until 2029. Contrary to reports, their offer doesn't include a salary reduction.
The Catalans are now running out of patience and are considering the possibility that the Dutchman won't sign a new deal. The LaLiga giants will assess his performances before coming to a decision. A renewal will only be considered at fresh terms, as the old proposal has expired.
Will Barcelona sign a new midfielder in 2025?
Barcelona could be tempted to sign a new midfielder if Frenkie de Jong leaves at the end of this season. The Dutch midfielder missed the start of the season with an injury and only recently returned to full fitness.
He has registered nine appearances across competitions under Hansi Flick this season. Recent reports have suggested that Liverpool are eyeing him with interest.
While Barcelona are likely to consider replacements if the Dutchman leaves, their financial situation could affect their plans. The Catalans could also opt to put their trust in the La Masia graduates Marc Casado and Marc Bernal.
The former has been excellent this season and is already a first team regular under Flick. The latter is currently sidelined with an ACL injury, but is also highly rated at Camp Nou.