Barcelona have been dealt a blow in any hopes of keeping midfield star Frenkie de Jong after being told they could not register any of their new signings until they reduce their financial outgoings.
The Catalan club have signed Andreas Christensen, Franck Kessie, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Jules Kounde this summer while renewing the contracts of Ousmane Dembele and Sergi Roberto – none of whose registrations can be registered with La Liga until the club balance their books.
Barca have handed a 10-day deadline for any potential transfer of Dutch international De Jong with both Manchester United and Chelsea pursuing a deal. It comes after United boss Erik ten Hag instructed United to remain patient on a deal after holding fresh talks with the player.
