Barcelona on track to tie Frenkie de Jong to new contract as Joan Laporta and Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman discuss midfielder's future

Barcelona president Laporta confirmed that De Jong is close to signing a new contract with the club. After months of slow progress, renewal talks were recently revived, and both parties appear to be in agreement.

The former Ajax midfielder's future at Barca has been the subject of ongoing speculation due to his high wages and interest from other clubs, with Manchester United often said to be after him. However, with Hansi Flick eager to keep him in his plans, and De Jong regaining his top form last season, the club now views him as a central figure moving forward.

Laporta made it clear, telling reporters: “We want Frenkie to be here for many years because he's a key player for our team. His renewal is on track and we'll have news soon."

Netherlands head coach Koeman, who was in attendance at the same event as the Barcelona chief, echoed that optimism, saying: “He wants to stay and has said several times that he's very happy here. I don't see any problems.”

The 28-year-old is currently enjoying a holiday and is expected to return for preseason on July 13. An official announcement regarding his contract renewal could come shortly after, with Barcelona aiming to finalise the deal before the 2025-26 campaign kicks off.