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„Manchester United“ has been trying to acquire „Barcelona“ midfielder Frenkie de Jong for quite some time now. Back in June, „United“ reached an agreement with the Catalans regarding a possible transfer of the player. Most sources claim that de Jong is aiming to stay at Barcelona, and even if he wanted to leave, he will not do so until he receives the 17 million euros owed to him by the club. However, „Barcelona“ has told the player that if he wants to remain part of the team's project, the Dutchman must reduce his salary by 50% and not receive the full amount owed to him until now.
When asked about de Jong's situation, „La Liga“ president Javier Tebas criticized the Catalan club for their actions. He said: "La Liga intends to adhere to the collective agreement of the Spanish Footballers Association. Players cannot be separated from the team or pressured. This is what the collective agreement, laws, common sense, and ethics dictate. „Barcelona“ knows these rules and the responsibility that exists in this aspect."
This week, „Manchester United“ legend Gary Neville stated that de Jong should take legal action against „Barcelona“, as the club failed to pay the player his due salary, while at the same time splurging on players like Robert Lewandowski or Raphinha. Neville wrote on his „Twitter“ account: "De Jong should consider legal actions against „Barcelona“ and all players should support him! Spending money on new players without paying all the money to those who already have is immoral and unacceptable. FIFPRO should take note of such injustices and stop them."
