Barcelona has made relentless efforts in recent years to offload Frenkie De Jong from Camp Nou, but the Dutch midfielder has consistently refused to leave the club.
The Team’s Highest Earners
De Jong ranks as Barça’s second highest-paid player, surpassed only by Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker earns €33 million gross, while De Jong receives a fixed €23 million plus €2 million in performance-related bonuses.
Club president Joan Laporta is eager to part ways with both players to reduce the club’s inflated wage bill. Years ago, both Lewandowski and De Jong agreed to deferred payments, accepting lower wages initially with the understanding that they would be compensated later in their contracts—a financial burden the club now faces.
Sporting Contributions
Lewandowski justifies his high salary by being a crucial starter, scoring goals, and making significant contributions in competitions like the Pichichi and Ballon d’Or races. In contrast, De Jong struggles for playing time and isn’t even a first-choice substitute. He didn’t feature at all in a recent match against Leganés, underscoring his limited role in the team.
From a sporting perspective, De Jong’s departure wouldn’t disrupt the team’s plans, making him expendable. His contract, however, complicates matters. After six seasons, his amortization value decreases, motivating Laporta to act decisively.
Failed Transfer Negotiations
Barcelona has explored transfer options involving De Jong, including a proposed swap deal with Chelsea. The club reportedly offered De Jong and Ferran Torres in exchange for Enzo Fernández, but negotiations fell through.
De Jong’s reluctance to leave, compounded by his long-term plans, including building a mansion in Barcelona, has stalled any potential exit.
Laporta’s Last Resort
Desperate to offload De Jong, Laporta is considering granting him a free transfer, allowing the midfielder to choose his next club while keeping any transfer fee. This reflects the club’s pressing need to ease its wage burden, even if it means losing a valuable asset for nothing.
Importantly, De Jong isn’t a Laporta-era signing, reducing the emotional or professional investment in keeping him. The president’s priority remains restructuring the wage bill, even if drastic measures are required.
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