Barcelona have reportedly reopened contract negotiations with Frenkie de Jong in an attempt to fend off interest from Arsenal.
De Jong’s future has been a topic of speculation for years, and it appeared a departure was imminent when Barcelona withdrew their offer for a new contract earlier this season, after the Dutchman failed to respond to their proposal.
However, since his return from injury, De Jong has played a prominent role in the squad under manager Hansi Flick, with the new coach urging the club’s hierarchy to ensure De Jong does not leave this summer.
Frenkie de Jong Open To New Deal
De Jong is said to be open to negotiating a new deal, and SPORT reports that Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has presented a fresh offer.
Deco met with De Jong’s agent last month, proposing a three-year contract with an annual salary between €18m-€19m (£15.1m-£16m), which is in line with his current wages.
Importantly, the proposed deal includes a clause requiring De Jong to forgo the remaining wages owed to him from when he deferred part of his salary during the COVID-19 pandemic back in October 2020.
Arsenal Considering Summer Move For De Jong
Barcelona are hopeful for a positive outcome, especially since Arsenal have reportedly approached De Jong with the possibility of a cut-price move this summer, when his current contract will have just 12 months remaining.
Barca have made it clear that any player entering the final year of their contract will be available for transfer.
The La Liga leaders aim to avoid such a drastic scenario.
De Jong is believed to be eager to stay at the club, and the opportunity to extend his stay into his 30s could be an appealing prospect.
