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Barcelona star set to sign contract extension after prolonged delay

Barcelona are looking like a well-oiled machine under Hansi Flick as they continue to build on the previous campaign.

The Catalans are unbeaten across all competitions and the only match where they didn't finish with three points was a 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga.

Hence, they are second in the La Liga points table, two points behind Real Madrid after the first five league games.

The had a great week where they kick-started Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win over Newcastle United away from home followed by a 3-0 triumph over Getafe in La Liga.

Amidst the good results, Barcelona have apparently reached an agreement with Frenkie de Jong over his contract renewal.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are extremely close to making it official as De Jong has apparently agreed to stay at Camp Nou until 2029.

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His current contract was all set to expire next summer, and many clubs were reportedly monitoring the situation around his contract situation.

But eventually, it seems like the Catalans have cracked a deal and as per reports, the 28-year-old midfielder has taken a pay-cut to continue his tenure at Barcelona.

What was the biggest hindrance in Frenkie de Jong's contract situation?

There were several issues surrounding the Dutchman's contract renewal as many people felt his time at Camp Nou was over.

However, the primary problem in his contract dealings was his former agent Ali Dursun, who had difference with Barcelona sporting director Deco and that led to issues.

De Jong decided to part ways with his long-time agent just to strike a new deal and remain at Barcelona and therefore he hired Sebastien Ledure as his new agent, who has apparently worked on his new contract.

It was a big step for the 28-year-old as talks have moved quickly since Ledure has taken over as Barcelona are also desperate to hold on to their star midfielder and one of the club captains.

De Jong remains pivotal to Flick's system as he allows Pedri and the forwards with enough freedom to work their magic on the field.

If the contract offer materializes, it will be a big move for Barcelona in terms of stability and would allow Deco and club president Joan Laporta to continue the rebuild at Camp Nou.