Liverpool enters the chase for 25-year-old Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong as Jurgen Klopp explores alternatives to Jude Bellingham.
According to Fichajes, Frenkie de Jong emerges as a target for Liverpool ahead of the summer window. The 25-year-old La Liga star was close to leaving last summer. Despite his personal preference, he could be reportedly forced out of Barcelona due to their financial situation.
Barcelona’s dire financial condition could force the club to sell some of their valued assets. That said, a few players could interest Premier League sides, including Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong. As per the latest from Spain, the Catalan giants need to raise €100 million through sales and cull their wage bill by €200 million.
That seems like a steep task ahead for Barcelona, which could end up with few key sales. One being that of De Jong, who has constantly featured on the radars of English clubs. Manchester United came close to signing him last summer and had even agreed on a fee with Barcelona.
However, the player wanted to remain at the club and refused a move to Manchester United. The Red Devils are reportedly considered front runners if the 25-year-old La Liga star becomes available this summer. They now face tremendous competition from Premier League rivals.
Chelsea are also in the hunt for De Jong as they have a major requirement to revamp their midfield. Now, Liverpool have joined the hunt for the 25-year-old La Liga star, with Jurgen Klopp, an admirer of the Dutchman’s talents.
Liverpool had initially wanted to sign Jude Bellingham on priority in the summer. They could still revive the chase for the Borussia Dortmund star, having cooled their interest recently. The English star will cost a bomb, and the Reds had thought of investing that money in several names instead.
They were also linked with Chelsea’s Mateo Kovacic recently, but there’s a clear indication that Klopp wants more than one name to arrive. Hence, signing De Jong may appeal to the German boss, who could see the Dutchman as an ideal addition.
Any move from Liverpool’s end will depend on how much Barcelona might demand for the 25-year-old La Liga star. They will want more than the €75 million they paid in 2019, which could suit the Merseysiders in the next window.
He could become a solid alternative to Bellingham for Liverpool. De Jong’s quality will likely elevate their midfield. For now, Barcelona could open the doors for sale, but much will depend on the money involved in the deal. With their deep coffers, Chelsea are likely to make themselves front runners if they are serious.
