Barcelona’s sporting director Deco appears to be planning for a future without Frenkie de Jong — and his replacement? None other than Sandro Tonali, the highly-rated Italian midfielder currently plying his trade at Newcastle United.

According to reports from Fichajes, Deco has listed Tonali, 24, as a prime candidate to fill the potential void left by de Jong, whose long-term future at the Camp Nou remains uncertain.

💰 Wages and Wear: The Frenkie Dilemma

While de Jong remains a fan favourite, the financial burden of his wages, coupled with his stalled contract talks, seems to be nudging the club toward a strategic reshuffle. The Dutchman’s current deal runs until June 2026, but no agreement on a renewal has been reached — a silence that speaks volumes in Barcelona’s economically sensitive environment.

🇮🇹 Why Tonali?

Sandro Tonali, a deep-lying playmaker often compared to Andrea Pirlo, has made waves since his big-money switch from AC Milan to Newcastle United in 2023, racking up five goals and three assists in 40 appearances for the Magpies.

Despite his ongoing ban related to betting offences, Tonali’s vision, composure, and tactical awareness are reportedly admired by Deco, who views him as an ideal long-term fit in Barça’s midfield machine — a role that demands intelligence, technical finesse, and defensive grit.

✍🏽 Opinion: Is This the Right Move?

While Tonali undeniably fits the Barça DNA, replacing Frenkie de Jong is no small feat. De Jong is not just a midfield metronome; he's a press-resistant powerhouse who has often carried the team in big games.

Still, football is about foresight, and Deco’s intent signals a club that is no longer content with sentimental loyalty when financial stability is at stake.

But here’s the kicker — will Newcastle let go of a €58.9 million investment so easily? And will Tonali, who only just landed in the Premier League, be ready to swap the English grit for the Spanish sun?

⚖️ Verdict: Ambitious, But Risky

Tonali is young, hungry, and full of promise. But this move would be a gamble — especially for a club still rebuilding its identity and finances. Yet, if Deco pulls it off, it might just be the start of a new era in Barça’s midfield.

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