FC Barcelona is facing financial challenges, and as a result, they are considering a significant offer from Chelsea for one of their star players. The Spanish club is currently struggling to compete in the transfer market while adhering to Financial Fair Play regulations. In order to bring in reinforcements and avoid registration issues, it is likely that Barcelona will need to make some high-profile sales this summer.
According to reports from El Nacional, Chelsea owner Todd Boehly will be traveling to Catalonia to initiate negotiations for the star player. The English club is said to be willing to offer a staggering $100 million (£80 million) to secure the services of Barcelona's prized asset.
While there are rumors of interest in Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo from Bayern Munich, the club seems determined to hold onto him, considering him a crucial part of their future plans in central defense alongside young talent Pau Cubarsi. In terms of midfield options, players like Pedri and Gavi are deemed 'untouchable,' but Frenkie de Jong could be a sellable asset that brings in a substantial fee without sacrificing the two Spanish prodigies.
Although De Jong was made available for transfer in 2021, with Manchester United submitting a bid worth $90 million (€85 million), his situation has since changed. The Dutch midfielder has proven his worth to coach Xavi Hernandez and has become a key starter alongside Ilkay Gundogan and Pedri.
However, Mundo Deportivo reports that if the right offer comes along, Barcelona would be open to selling De Jong for $107 million (€100 million). Currently, the club's board is also working on extending De Jong's contract for three additional seasons. This extension would allow the club to spread out the deferred payments from the pandemic over the duration of the contract.
De Jong is currently the highest-paid member of the first-team squad, earning $26.7 million (€24.8 million) this season, with incremental decreases in subsequent years. If the negotiations with De Jong do not go as planned, Chelsea and their co-owner Todd Boehly are ready to step in and relieve Barcelona of their financial burden.
In conclusion, FC Barcelona is facing financial difficulties and is considering a substantial offer from Chelsea for one of their star players. Although they are reluctant to part ways with talents like Ronald Araujo and Pedri, Frenkie de Jong could be a potential sale that brings in a high fee. Ultimately, negotiations will be crucial in determining if Barcelona can alleviate their financial woes without sacrificing their key assets.
