Frank Christian
Barcelona is gearing up for a significant transformation, with Frenkie de Jong playing a pivotal role in this shift.
The Dutch midfielder, once viewed as a crucial asset, has experienced a notable decline in his standing within the club.
Recent reports indicate that the team is now open to selling him for a much lower price than before.
Upon his arrival at Barcelona, de Jong quickly won the fans’ hearts, but under the management of Hansi Flick, his position has significantly weakened.
His place in the starting lineup is no longer secure, and his performances have faced increasing criticism.
Fans at Camp Nou, who once adored him, have shown their discontent, with boos ringing out during recent games.
This shift highlights a troubled bond between de Jong and the club.
Barcelona’s asking price for Frenkie de Jong
As per SPORT, Barcelona is considering offers as low as €20 million (£17m/$21m) for de Jong.
This reduced asking price stems from his recent decline in performance and the financial burden he poses to the club. With his contract running until 2026, discussions about an extension have reached a standstill, complicating the situation.
The financial implications of de Jong’s wages also contribute to this decision. Although exact figures remain undisclosed, his annual cost is believed to be an eye-watering €35 million (£29m/$37m).
For a player who has lost his impact, such expenses are increasingly hard to rationalize.
As January approaches, Barcelona perceives the sale of de Jong as a necessary move to alleviate their financial issues. The revenue could be directed towards acquiring new players and revamping their roster.
To summarize, a combination of a coaching change, a drop in form, high salary demands, and the need for financial stability has led Barcelona to consider parting ways with de Jong.
What’s next for De Jong?
The future of de Jong now hangs in the balance. Will he continue to compete for his position at Barcelona, or will he explore opportunities with other clubs?
European teams will likely be closely monitoring the situation, as they might find a great talent available at a reduced price.
The upcoming months are crucial for Barcelona. Selling de Jong could mark the beginning of overcoming their financial hurdles and reimagining their team for the future.
