Barcelona to offer De Jong contract until 2028

Barcelona is reportedly set to make a decisive move to secure the long-term future of midfielder Frenkie de Jong, preparing an offer to extend his contract until the summer of 2028. This proactive approach underscores the club's intent to solidify its core, with sources close to the Catalan giants indicating a strong desire to see this crucial deal wrapped up in the immediate future. The proposed extension would add two years to his current agreement, which is set to expire in 2026, signaling Barcelona's unwavering commitment to the Dutch international amidst persistent external interest.

De Jong's journey at Camp Nou has been a rollercoaster, marked by periods of immense pressure and unwavering loyalty. Despite significant interest from Premier League powerhouses like Manchester United and and Chelsea in previous transfer windows, the midfielder consistently expressed his desire to remain in Catalonia. His resilience and determination to succeed at Barcelona, even through complex financial negotiations and salary deferrals, have endeared him to the club's hierarchy and a significant portion of the fanbase. Under Xavi Hernández, De Jong has blossomed into an undisputed starter, showcasing his unique ability to dictate play from deep, break lines with his carries, and provide defensive solidity, making him an indispensable cog in the team's evolving system.

The urgency to finalize this extension stems from several strategic considerations. Firstly, it provides vital stability in a key position, allowing Xavi to build his midfield around a proven, world-class talent alongside promising youngsters like Pedri and Gavi. Secondly, securing De Jong's future mitigates the risk of him entering the final two years of his contract without a clear path forward, which could depreciate his market value or invite renewed transfer speculation. From a financial fair play perspective, a new deal could also allow for a restructuring of his current salary, potentially easing the club's wage bill in the short term while guaranteeing his services for the long haul. His leadership on the pitch, combined with his technical prowess, makes him a foundational piece for Barcelona's aspirations to compete for top honors both domestically and in Europe.