Deco confirms Barcelona will not be renewing key midfielder’s contract this year: “Will see in the future”

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has affirmed that the the team will not indulge in any contract renewals this year mostly because they want to move forward over this in a very cautious manner.

In recent months, Barcelona have successfully secured the renewals of key players, but there’s one particular case that stands out, especially in light of events from last summer. 

That case revolves around Frenkie de Jong, whom the club actively listed for transfer last year but are currently endeavouring to extend his contract beyond its 2026 expiration. 

Nevertheless, Deco, in conversation with SPORT, has cautioned that there’s no imminent news expected regarding a potential extension for the midfielder.

“This year we are not going to make any renewals. We do not talk about that. 

“We are calm, without rushing, approaching the agents because we know that there are players who have this season and one or two more and at that time we will talk to the agents.

“Both parties have to be happy and we will see in the future,” he said.

De Jong is important for Barcelona

While it is one thing that de Jong’s participation has been hindered by injuries this season, it goes without saying that he remains a vital member of the squad.

Judging by the statistics, as observed earlier, it is safe to assume that the Blaugrana have struggled for comfort during his absence. While speaking about the same, Deco openly acknowledged the significance of the midfielder in Xavi’s tactical setup.

“Frenkie is a great player, I like him. There are others in a similar situation, like Pedri, Raphinha, and Ferran and they are players who have a contract and we are going to try to improve little by little but without getting into individualities. 

“It will depend on him and also on the club’s situation, as well as in the case of other players. Of course, De Jong is a great player and we would like to have good players,” he concluded.