Frenkie de Jong's story with FC Barcelona began in 2019, when he arrived from Ajax for an impressive figure: 86 million euros. He was considered the future best midfielder in the world. A talented young man with a unique vision of the game and outstanding technical ability.
Barcelona bet everything on his signing, seeking a reference in the midfield for the coming years. But five years have passed, and what was once a promise now seems like a story full of uncertainties.
From Promise to Complications
Since his arrival, Frenkie de Jong has shown glimpses of his quality, but he has also been the protagonist of more problems than joys. His contractual situation has been the main topic of discussion. Not only because of his performance on the field but also due to the constant rumors about his future and tensions with the club's management.
De Jong has a contract until 2026 and is the second highest-paid, only behind Lewandowski. The Dutch midfielder earns almost 20 million euros gross per season, not counting the additional bonuses he could receive based on his performance. This high salary has become a point of conflict.
In recent months, the player rejected several renewal proposals with a salary reduction in exchange for extending his contract. Frenkie didn't respond to the offers, leaving his continuity at Barça hanging in the air. It seemed clear that next summer he might say goodbye to the club, as both President Joan Laporta and Deco didn't want to let him go for free.
An Unexpected Turn
However, in a surprising turn, negotiations between the player and the club have taken a different direction. Frenkie de Jong, who once was reluctant to renew, now seems willing to stay at Barça. The new conditions proposed by the club have been key to this change of stance.
The new agreement wouldn't imply a drastic decrease in De Jong's total salary, but it would adjust its structure. The fixed amount would decrease, while the bonuses would increase, making his income more dependent on his performance on the field.
Additionally, the release clause would drop from 400 to 80 million, facilitating his departure if he seeks new challenges.
Frenkie has shown his agreement with the new offer, calling it "it's a very good offer". This seems to put an end to the saga that has accompanied the player for much of his time in Barcelona.