Frenkie de Jong commits future as Barcelona seal new long-term deal

The Dutch midfielder's previous deal is due to expire in 2026, and with negotiations stretching over several months, there had been uncertainty surrounding his future.

Talks had slowed earlier this year after De Jong changed agents, but Barcelona have now confirmed that the 28-year-old will remain a key part of their long-term plans, with the signing scheduled for Wednesday, October 15.

Reports in Spain have indicated that the new deal includes a reduction in De Jong's base salary, to around €12 million per season, a move that helps ease Barcelona's ongoing financial pressures. His previous agreement, extended in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, featured deferred wage payments that were due to rise significantly towards the end of the contract.

De Jong was one of several senior players who agreed to restructure their salaries to support the club during the pandemic, but the escalating costs of those deferred payments prompted Barcelona to consider selling him in 2022. Manchester United made a strong push for his signature at the time, but De Jong repeatedly stated his intention to stay at the Camp Nou.

"I've always been a Barça fan since I was a kid. This is my dream club," De Jong said earlier this year when asked about his future.

Since joining from Ajax in a deal worth around seventy-five million euros in 2019, De Jong has made over 250 appearances and won six major trophies, including two La Liga titles.

Under current manager Hansi Flick, he has formed a vital midfield partnership with Pedri, providing experience and stability in a young and evolving side.

De Jong's renewal comes as a major boost for Barcelona, who remain determined to build their next generation around a core of established leaders and academy talents.