Liverpool are reportedly plotting a January move for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, but the Catalan giants appear to be holding out for a far higher fee. According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Reds have already tabled a €40million offer for the 29-year-old Netherlands international, only for it to be knocked back.

Barcelona’s Sky-High Asking Price Leaves Liverpool with a Dilemma

The Blaugrana are said to be demanding between €65million and €70million to part ways with the Dutchman midway through the 2026/27 season. Fichajes also claims his contractual situation allows Barcelona to dictate his valuation, meaning Liverpool would need to raise their offer significantly to get anywhere near a deal.

From Ajax Prodigy to Barça Regular: De Jong’s Career So Far

Since arriving from Ajax in July 2019, de Jong has been one of the club’s more dependable performers, amassing 300 appearances, 20 goals and 31 assists. Injuries have disrupted his last few seasons, though, yet his consistent output and 70 Netherlands caps have kept several leading clubs interested.

Why Liverpool Keep Chasing De Jong’s Midfield Magic

Liverpool have long admired the midfielder. He is equally comfortable as a creative playmaker or a deep-lying midfielder, which would allow him to slot in alongside Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister. His passing range could also sharpen the Reds’ attacking transitions.

Is Frenkie de Jong Worth €70m? Our Take on Liverpool’s Pursuit

The gap between €40million and €70million is huge, and Fichajes reports deserve a healthy pinch of salt until corroborated. Personally, I believe a fee approaching €70million would be a considerable gamble for a player with de Jong’s recent injury record, especially given the physical demands of the Premier League. His technical quality is not in doubt, but Liverpool may prefer to wait and see whether Barcelona soften their stance closer to the deadline.