Barcelona trying to force Frenkie de Jong sale yet again

Karan Tejwani

• 7 Dec 2022 10:30 GMT
• 3 min read

Barcelona have approached Frenkie de Jong’s representatives in a bid to get him to lower the Dutchman’s wage and free up funds for future transfer moves.

Barcelona and De Jong had disputes in the summer as they were looking to offload the Dutch midfielder, but were unable to do so despite Manchester United’s serious interest.

They even pointed out illegalities in the contract he signed in 2020 in a bid to get him to move but nothing came of it and he ended up staying at the Camp Nou, where he has impressed.

READ: Frenkie de Jong: How to stop Lionel Messi

Now, according to Sport, Barcelona want to free up some funds by either getting De Jong to reduce his wages or selling him altogether.

De Jong’s desire has always been to remain at Barcelona, as he made it evident during Manchester United’s 17-week pursuit of him in the summer transfer window.

However, relations between De Jong’s representatives and the club isn’t at its best and a new contract at Barcelona beyond his current 2026 deal would only happen on a reduced wage.

This could invite De Jong to look elsewhere and it’s believed Manchester United are still interested in the player, with Erik ten Hag keen to reunite with him at Old Trafford.

READ: Why Barcelona are furious with Frenkie de Jong

Other than De Jong, some of the club’s other high earners such as Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Jordi Alba could have salary reductions as Barcelona look for a further cash boost.

Barcelona have already had a cash boost in recent weeks following the surprise retirement of Gerard Pique which has saved the club plenty in wages as he was one of the club’s higher earners and refused a pay-out.

They are looking to make some January transfers as a result but know that will be difficult as they have restrictions from La Liga’s Financial Fair Play rules.