Barcelona and Man Utd Transfer News

FC Barcelona is reportedly perplexed by Frenkie de Jong's attitude, with sources suggesting he may be intentionally allowing his contract to run down, potentially leaving the club for free in 2026. The Dutch midfielder faced a hostile reception from fans during the Joan Gamper Trophy match, where he was booed alongside teammate Clement Lenglet. This discontent stems from their high salaries, which were deferred during the pandemic, and fans believe their refusal to renegotiate could hinder Barcelona's efforts to resolve Financial Fair Play issues. De Jong's situation has become increasingly problematic for Barcelona, particularly as he has been sidelined with an ankle injury since April. His absence has been felt during crucial matches, including the Netherlands' Euro 2024 semifinal run. While other players like Pedri have returned to training, De Jong remains out of shape and unresponsive to the club's attempts to address his contractual situation. This has led to speculation that he may be prioritizing a lucrative exit rather than contributing to the team's needs. Meanwhile, Manchester United continues to express interest in De Jong, especially following the signings of his former Ajax teammates Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui. United's long-standing pursuit of the midfielder could gain momentum if Barcelona's financial struggles persist, potentially allowing them to acquire De Jong at a reduced price. As the transfer window progresses, the dynamics surrounding De Jong's future remain uncertain, with both Barcelona and Manchester United closely monitoring the situation.