Frenkie de Jong deemed ‘non-transferable’ by Barcelona amidst Manchester United interest
Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong has been deemed ‘non-transferable’ by the Blaugrana amidst interest from Manchester United, according to Sport (h/t Express).
Apart from the Red Devils, the 25-year-old has been linked with Premier League rivals Chelsea. However, the La Liga giants are not keen on parting ways with the Holland international.
In stark contrast, last summer, the Spanish outfit were looking to sell De Jong and Erik ten Hag was desperate to bring him to the Old Trafford side. However, in the end, a deal failed to materialise because of the midfielder’s reluctance.
United and the Stamford Bridge side are expected to pursue the Holland international’s signature in the upcoming transfer window. However, Barcelona are reluctant to sell him.
The Blaugrana feel it will be difficult to replace the 25-year-old if they get rid of him. As a result, the former Ajax star is highly regarded by the La Liga giants and they will ask for a considerable fee if any teams come knocking.
Initially, under Xavi, De Jong found it difficult to get into the team. The Spanish gaffer has other quality midfielders like Sergio Busquets, Pedri and Gavi at his disposal.
However, after a brief difficult period, the 25-year-old has become an essential member of the Camp Nou side’s starting lineup. The Holland international has started in 16 of the Catalan outfit’s last 17 league matches.
Last summer, United signed Casemiro and Christian Eriksen to bolster the middle of the park. However, we evidently lack quality in depth with the likes of Fred, Scott McTominay and Donny van de Beek on our books.
More Manchester United News
- Facundo Pellistri and Anthony Elanga to be allowed to leave Manchester United on loan next summer
- Manchester United ‘plotting’ move for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao
- Tottenham Hotspur ‘not contemplating’ Harry Kane sale amidst Manchester United interest
De Jong has been one of the best midfielders in the world. However, it seems unlikely that the Old Trafford side will be able to get a hold of him anytime soon.
