Barcelona to ‘exile’ star player if he refuses new contract or transfer as things turn ugly

Barcelona could be set to ‘exile’ star midfielder Frenkie De Jong following ongoing issues during contract negotiations.

Barcelona is facing a crucial January transfer window as the club deals with off-field issues while also competing in La Liga.

Positive news has come in the form of Dani Olmo being cleared to be registered by the club, preventing the possibility of him leaving for free this month.

Due to ongoing financial difficulties, Barcelona is likely to be forced to sell players, with defender Ronald Araujo reportedly a target for Juventus.

According to SPORT, Araujo may not be the only high-profile player to leave, as Barcelona is also open to selling Frenkie de Jong due to his unresolved contract situation.

De Jong’s contract runs until the summer of 2026, and despite efforts to negotiate a renewal, talks with the Dutch midfielder have reportedly stalled.

The report suggests that while De Jong intends to stay until his contract expires, Barcelona’s urgent need for funds might push them to take drastic measures. If he doesn’t leave or extend his contract, the 27-year-old could be excluded from the squad by Hansi Flick.

Flick is believed to no longer count on the Netherlands international with players like Pedri, Marc Casad, Gavi, Dani Olmo, and surprisingly Fermin Lopez ahead of him in the pecking order.

De Jong is one of Barcelona’s highest earners, commanding a reported €365,385 per week, which is largely the reason the La Liga giants are so open to a late exit this month.

The Dutchman has only started one game out of eight appearances in La Liga this season but has found the net during his limited game time.