RONALD KOEMAN has a release clause in his Dutch contract meaning he can leave before it expires in 2022 — but only if Barcelona come calling.
The former flop Everton manager, 56, has helped Holland to the top of their Euro 2020 qualifying Group C ahead of Germany.
Both countries are on 15 points with two games to play still in the group and Koeman’s side are guaranteed of at least a playoff spot.
They turned around a 1-0 deficit to stun Northern Ireland in a 3-1 win during this month’s international window, before going on to clinch victory in Belarus.
But the Oranje will surely qualify automatically for next summer’s tournament, two years after missing out on the World Cup in Russia.
That failure to qualify led to Dick Advocaat’s exit and Koeman was brought in, signing a contract in February 2018.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the exclusive Barcelona clause could be activated next summer if Holland are successful at the Euros.
If current Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde fails in the Champions League like Barcelona did last year, thanks to their shocking 4-0 slump at Anfield, he could be shown the door.
Dutch FA sporting director Nico-Jan Hoogma confirmed the release clause on Dutch TV.
He said: “Agreements were reached in that regard but they would have to pay for it.”
A switch to the Nou Camp would certainly raise eyebrows at Goodison Park, after Koeman failed to get Everton firing despite spending £150million on new players.
He was sacked in October 2017 after the Toffees fell into the Premier League relegation zone.
