Barcelona have insisted that Frenkie de Jong is not for sale amid speculation linking the midfielder with a move to Manchester United.
Manchester United have been credited with an interest in the 24-year-old as the club look for midfield reinforcements this summer, with speculation having suggested that a fee of around £70m could be enough to persuade Barcelona to sell.
De Jong broke through at Ajax under the guidance of incoming United manager Erik ten Hag, starring under his compatriot’s guidance as the Dutch side won a domestic double and reached the Champions League semi-finals in 2018/19.
Ten Hag is reportedly interested in a reunion with the Netherlands international at Old Trafford, though leading figures at Barcelona have shut down speculation over a potential exit.
Barcelona sporting adviser and former Manchester United player, Jordi Cruyff, has insisted that the club will not sell De Jong despite interest from the Premier League.
“We are not going to sell Frenkie de Jong,” he said, according to Catalan outlet, SPORT.
“He is a highly valued player within the club.”
Barcelona manager Xavi was also adamant that De Jong remains a part of his plans and says he intends for the midfielder to stay at Barcelona ‘for many years’.
“Frenkie is a very important player for me and for the club. I’m happy with him. If it were up to me he will continue for many years at Barcelona.”
