Barcelona want midfield maestro to spend his entire career at club by renewing contract until 2029

From being on the brink of an exit last summer to now being the leader of Barcelona’s dressing room, Frenkie de Jong has come a long way. 

The Dutchman fought through adversity to establish himself under Xavi Hernandez and is now one of the team’s most important players.

De Jong started all seven of Barcelona’s games this season until his injury against Celta Vigo and completed the ninety minutes in almost all of them. 

He has not operated purely as a defensive or an attacking midfielder. Rather, his hybrid role has changed based on the situation and helped the team in both facets of the game.

Barcelona want him to renew

The Catalans are impressed by the midfielder’s form and dedication to the club and wish to reward him with a long-term renewal. Deco is already working on the matter and hopes to complete the operation by this year, as revealed by SPORT.

As reported yesterday, the sporting director has already made initial contact with the midfielder and told him that he is the cornerstone of the project, while informing the club’s desire to renew his contract.

Barcelona hope to reach an agreement with the maestro to extend his contract until the summer of 2029. It will be made on the understanding that the player will see out practically his entire sporting career in Catalonia.

The only hurdle, however, is the Dutch international’s wages. Frenkie is currently Barcelona’s highest-paid player and the club hope to convince him to take a pay cut.

Like the deal offered to Marc-Andre ter Stegen, the Azulgranas propose to reduce the player’s wages until 2026. However, he will not lose a penny of the agreed amount as his salary in the following years will compensate for the deficit.

An unfortunate injury

Frenkie de Jong was on song in Barcelona’s opening games of the season and established himself as their most vital player.

Xavi Hernandez was in half a mind to rest him against Celta Vigo, but eventually opted to give him a day off on the following matchday.

As it played out, however, the former Ajax star injured his ankle against the Galicians and is expected to be out until November.