Frenkie de Jong to Liverpool: Barcelona Reject €40m Bid and Demand Up to €70m

Liverpool are reportedly plotting a January move for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, but the Catalans appear ready to drive a hard bargain.

Barcelona Turn Down Liverpool’s Opening Offer

Spanish outlet Fichajes claims the Reds have already submitted a €40m offer for the 29-year-old Netherlands international as they seek midfield creativity during the winter window.

According to the report, Barcelona rejected that approach and want at least €65m-€70m to sanction a mid-season exit. Fichajes adds that De Jong’s contractual situation lets the Spanish giants dictate his valuation.

De Jong’s Record at Barcelona

De Jong joined from Ajax in July 2019 and has been among the Blaugrana’s most consistent performers, although injuries have hampered him recently. He has made 300 appearances for the club, contributing 20 goals and 31 assists, plus 70 caps for the Netherlands.

How De Jong Could Fit at Anfield

Liverpool’s interest is nothing new. His versatility is a major attraction, as he can play as a creative midfielder yet has also excelled in a deeper role for Barcelona and Ajax. As a deep-lying playmaker, he could sit alongside Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, his passing range enhancing the Reds’ attacking transitions.

The Premier League’s physical demands are a concern given his recent injury record, even if his technical quality is proven. Barcelona’s valuation also reflects his contract length and reliability when fit.

Opinion: Is De Jong Worth the Gamble?

In my view, paying near €70m for a 29-year-old with a patchy fitness record looks steep, particularly in January when selling clubs hold the leverage. Liverpool would be buying pedigree rather than guaranteed availability, which is a considerable risk.

Then again, a midfielder who dictates tempo so calmly would add a different dimension to Liverpool’s engine room. Fichajes is also not always dependable on fees, so the figures deserve caution.