Frenkie de Jong is one of the most outstanding players to have arrived at FC Barcelona in recent years. His future at the club, however, seems more uncertain than ever.
A Performance below Expectations
Since his arrival at Barça in 2019, expectations have been high for the Dutchman. However, his performance hasn't been as expected. Although he is a talented player, his adaptation to the team's style has been slower than anticipated.
After an ankle injury that kept him out for 163 days, De Jong hasn't been able to regain his best self. Despite being given the all-clear on 1 October, he is still not 100% fit and his performance is still lacking.
Internal Competition at Barça
One of the reasons the midfielder could leave the club is the abundance of talent in the center of the lineup. Players such as Casadó, Pedri, Olmo, Gavi, Fermín and Bernal have emerged as alternatives to Xavi. This brings up the question of what De Jong's role is in the team. With so many options, the need for the Dutchman has diminished, which favors his possible exit at the end of the season.
The Economic Burden
In addition to the sporting aspect, the economic aspect plays an important role in this decision. Frenkie de Jong is one of the most expensive players at the club. After renewing his contract during the coronavirus pandemic, his annual cost to Barça amounts to around 35 million euros.
This figure includes his salary, the deferred amount of his contract and amortization. With the salary cap being a constant concern, Barça could see De Jong's departure as an opportunity to ease their financial burden.
Renewal and the Uncertain Future
Frenkie de Jong's contract with Barça expires in 2026. The club, however, considers it difficult for him to renew under the current conditions. In fact, De Jong has been reluctant to accept the renewal offer, due to the way in which he was pressured for a possible move to Manchester United. The Dutchman still harbors resentment about this episode, which has cooled his relationship with the board.
Although FC Barcelona would prefer a sale in 2025, they are willing to reach an agreement that would allow them to release De Jong from his contract. If there's no transfer offer, the club doesn't rule out offering him a free transfer to facilitate his departure. This measure would allow Barça to save the aforementioned 35 million euros. That would facilitate the reinforcement of the squad in the next market.