Barcelona could exile the midfielder from the squad if the summer sale fails: report

Barcelona face a crucial transfer window this month, with the future of key defender Ronald Araujoa emerging as a major topic of discussion.

The Uruguayan is attracting interest from Juventus and there is reportedly a strong chance the centre-back will be on the move before the window ends.

However, according to SPORT, Araujo may not be the only player leaving Barcelona this month, with the futures of Frenkie de Jong, Eric Garcia and Ansu Fati also up in the air.

Eric’s departure seems unlikely as things stand due mainly to two key reasons: his reluctance to leave and the possible departure of Araujo.

But the doors are open for De Jong to leave.

Barcelona’s plans for De Jong

Frenkie de Jong is in a similar situation to Araujo, as his contract expires in 2026. Barcelona has repeatedly tried to negotiate a contract renewal with the Dutch midfielder, but has been met with silence.

While De Jong intends to remain at the club until the final day of his contract, the Catalans are leaning towards selling him this summer, although a move in January is also on the table.

If the club does not obtain either a transfer or a renewal, expelling him from the squad and sending him to the stands could become the most feasible alternative.

After all, Hansi Flick is reportedly no longer counting on the Dutch international, with players like Pedri, Marc Casad, Gavi, Dani Olmo and even Fermín López ahead of him in the hierarchy, with Marc Bernal’s return pending after an injury.

Given that De Jong is one of the highest earners and is no longer a regular starter, Barcelona remains open to his sale in January or summer.

As mentioned above, the club could consider releasing the player from the squad in extreme circumstances. Only time will tell how the situation with De Jong and Barça evolves.