Nike played an important role in Barca's signing of Netherlands international Frankie de Jong, according to ESPN. PSG were initially in pole position to land the Netherlands international, but an intervention from Nike would have tipped the balance back into the hands of ​Barcelona.
Nike Reported To Partly Pay Wage Of De Jong
Nike sponsor both Barcelona and De Jong. ESPN sources are claiming that the company invested a 'very important amount of money' in wages in the belief that the youngster's achievements during his time at Barcelona will see the return exceed the investment. Nike did not contribute to his transfer fee. Nike is also sponsoring PSG, however.
For marketing purposes, Nike also requested that De Jong use his first name on the back of his Barcelona shirt, although he said to have been unsure over whether to agree to the request.
De Jong said that the move was inspired by his love for Barca from a young age.
"I always dreamed of Barca as a kid. I just wanted to play for Barca," he said. "I liked the players, I liked the style. I think Barca is a bit of my dream club."
Frankie De Jong, a midfielder, is currently wearing the Nike Mercurial Vapor 360 boots.
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