FC Barcelona has already made several top transfers worth millions this summer, including Robert Lewandowski from FC Bayern. But in order to be able to register the many expensive stars at all, others first have to be sold. The case of Frenkie de Jong is now causing a stir beyond the Spanish borders.
FC Barcelona’s intentions regarding midfielder Frenkie de Jong are now clear: the Dutchman, who is under contract until 2026, should leave the club immediately so that much-needed money can come into the coffers. “I’ve already spoken to Frenkie, I really appreciate him. He’s a key player, but there’s this economic situation and Financial Fair Play,” Barca head coach Xavi said recently.
The Catalans have long since agreed on a transfer with Premier League club Manchester United, with reports that Barca would receive up to 85 million euros for the Dutchman.
The problem: The central midfielder refuses a transfer to England and refers to his valid contract. Manchester United should also not be the first address for the 44-time national player, as the Red Devils missed out on qualifying for the Champions League last season.
The second problem for Barca: De Jong’s contract is highly endowed, the 24-year-old is said to earn around 19 million euros a year.
Barca demand salary cut – Neville demands lawsuit
As “ASAs a result, Barca asked the player to forego 40 percent of his net salary in the future after he had rejected the move.
Ex-United professional Gary Neville also finds an extremely questionable approach on the part of FC Barcelona. The former England international even demanded on Twitter that Frenkie de Jong now take “legal action against Barcelona”. “A club that spends a fortune on new players while not wanting to pay in full those who are under contract is immoral and a breach.”
Neville finds support from former Frankfurt striker Jan-Aage Fjörtoft, who tweeted: “I’m still trying to understand why de Jong has to use part of his money to buy Lewandowski.”