Barcelona are reportedly in talks with world-class Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong over a possible move in next summer’s transfer window.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Sport, Barcelona have stepped up their interest in Frenkie de Jong. The La Liga champions have reportedly established contact with the Dutch international’s representatives, letting him know their intention to make their move for him next summer.
Frenkie de Jong is one of many prodigious talents that are a part of the Dutch revolution that has also translated to the national side’s resurgence in international football. At Ajax, the only way has been up for the 21-year-old, who has shown a lot of promise in less than two full seasons at the club.
The player had also been highly sought-after in the transfer market last summer, with Barcelona among a multitude of clubs who were vying for his signature. But, Ajax held firm to the world-class midfielder, although they are facing up to the prospect of losing him next summer.
Ajax sporting director Marc Overmars has claimed that Barcelona are the favourites to sign de Jong, and the Blaugrana seem to be stepping up their interest in the youngster, having begun talks with his entourage over the possibility of a summer move.
Ernesto Valverde has a glut of midfielders at his disposal, while Andre Gomes could return to Camp Nou as well, following the end of his loan spell with Everton. But, a closer inspection suggests that the Barcelona boss could do with an injection of youth to create a long-term arsenal of midfielders who fit their possession-based system.
While Denis Suarez looks set to depart from Camp Nou next summer after growing frustrated over a lack of game time, Arturo Vidal is only a stopgap solution at best. That leaves Valverde with the likes of Ivan Rakitic, Sergio Busquets, Arthur and Philippe Coutinho as the only regulars in the Barcelona first-team setup.
With Rakitic and Busquets being on the wrong side of 30, signing a player like de Jong could help pave the way for a smooth transition whenever the veteran duo are phased out. And, Barcelona have already indicated their desire to secure the player’s signature, although they are trying to reduce his €75 million valuation.
As things stand, de Jong is closer to Barcelona than any other outfit, although the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City might have something to say about that. It now remains to be seen if the Catalan heavyweights can reach an agreement with the 21-year-old quickly, or if this evolves into a transfer saga.
