'Let the newspapers talk!' - Frenkie de Jong defiant amid rumours that Barcelona contract talks have stalled as Dutchman continues comeback from ankle injury

Marca reported last month that the Blaugrana have stalled contract discussions with De Jong and will resume the talks at the end of the 2024/25 campaign. With his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, the Dutchman's future at the Catalan side remains uncertain. The midfielder, however, has now opened up about his situation as he remains determined to remain at the club.

Speaking to Ziggo Sport, the 27-year-old said: "Let the newspapers talk about me. I’ve been here for a while now, so I’m used to it. It can be frustrating. At some point, they invented things, so I had to express myself."

He added: "I feel good. I’m in very good shape, and I don’t think about my ankle during matches anymore."

De Jong suffered an ankle injury towards the end of the 2023/24 season, which kept him out of action for a significant period of time. The Netherlands international, however, has now fully recovered and has cemented his place in Barcelona's starting lineup under Hansi Flick. In the current season, De Jong has appeared in 29 matches across all competitions where he has scored two goals and provided one assist.

The Catalan giants will be back in action in La Liga on Sunday night as they take on Atletico Madrid in a crucial fixture away from home.