While there is a lot of talk that Frenkie de Jong and Barcelona will extend their partnership after the end of the season, it seems that the Dutchman is willing to stand by his word, and the 27-year-old is currently in talks with the Blaugrana over a new deal.
Just six months ago, it seemed like a foregone conclusion that de Jong would leave Barcelona this summer. The €83 million signing was whistled by his own fans, and while he struggled to bounce back from injury, with a contract expiring in 2026 and little sign of a new offer – Barcelona had withdrawn their previous offer – it looked like sporting director Deco would find a new club for de Jong this summer.
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Clubs such as Manchester United, who have long chased de Jong, and Liverpool, have been linked with him. At the same time, there were also rumours that Barcelona had contacted Saudi Arabia to see if they might be interested. While a move to Saudi Arabia never seemed likely for him, Sport now reports that he has definitively turned down an offer from Al-Ittihad, who were willing to put a significant contract offer on the table.
It is worth noting that their technical director Ramon Planes, formerly of Barcelona, has already brought in the talented young talent Unai Hernandez from the Blaugrana this year.
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Manager Hansi Flick has played a key role in bringing de Jong and Barcelona closer together. He has given the Dutchman new confidence on the pitch and asked the club to make a financial effort to keep him, as he sees him as crucial for the future.
De Jong’s time at Barcelona has been mixed since his big move from Ajax. Many Barcelona fans were ready to close their chapter with him at the end of last season. While he has struggled to dominate games as some expected, it seems that he is finally showing his true potential in 2025 – a recurring feature this season under Flick.
