It's no secret that Barcelona are in a financial mess, but one recent report suggests that the club's struggles could force them to sell a host of key players.
According to Mundo Deportivo, La Liga are forcing the Spanish giants to cut their infamous wage bill by a whopping €200M ($215M). While raising income could solve this dilemma, the likeliest route to take would be player sales.
And for obvious reasons, one name dominating this conversation is Frenkie de Jong. The Dutch midfielder was the subject of interest from Manchester United all last summer but the player refused to leave Camp Nou as Old Trafford was perceived to be an unstable destination.
The former Ajax sensation has established himself in Xavi's starting eleven since that transfer fiasco, meaning the Blaugrana will insist he is not for sale. However, with Manchester United needing a new midfielder and likely to qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season, expect Ten Hag's side to return for the 25-year-old.
The player's contract runs until 2026 and is set to pocket in the region of $89M up until the end of his deal. His stance will be interesting to see as De Jong had—and probably still has—no desire to leave Catalonia.
However, De Jong isn't the only talent that might have to go as a result of this financial dilemma. Ansu Fati has also been mentioned after seeing his playing time diminish quite largely.
The 20-year-old, who has also been linked with the Red Devils, was the gem at Barcelona a few seasons ago but a number of unfortunate injuries have derailed things for him. Jorge Mendes, the winger's agent, has reportedly been in contact with suitors ahead of a potential exit, with the Blaugrana valuing their academy graduate at $102M.
A number of experienced players could also be moved on, including Sergi Roberto, Jordi Alba, and club captain Sergio Busquets, one of the club's highest earners. Franck Kessie's situation remains up in the air while Ousmane Dembele is nearing the end of his contract and could thus be sacrificed as well.
