'That makes it a kind of extortion': Dutch players union chairman slams Barcelona's handling of De Jong

Evgeniy Levchenko, the chairman of the VVCS, which is the Dutch players' union, has slammed Barcelona's handling of the Frenkie de Jong situation.

After reports of De Jong's salary being cut by half in case he isn't sold to Man United or any other club, Levchenko has warned the player of the implications of such a move.

"I think a union should protect all players. Now a player is cornered by a club and chased away. Then it is up to an international union (FIFPro, ed.) to stand up," Levchenko told ANP .

He fears this will lead to De Jong being given lesser playing time. "FC Barcelona will then invoke sporting grounds, but it is disastrous for the career of a young player. That makes it a kind of extortion."

Levchenko tells De Jong not to accept the pay cut. "I would say 'no'. FC Barcelona has full responsibility. The club's long-term policy is dramatic. It is crazy when players have to pay for the financial mess."