Manchester City are being linked with a move to sign Frenkie de Jong, with Barcelona reportedly ready to cash in on the midfielder amid their concerning financial situation.
Barcelona are understood to be considering the sale of the Netherlands international for a fee of £75m, with Manchester City a potential destination for De Jong as the Catalans look to ease their economic issues.
De Jong signed for the Spanish giants in 2019 after impressing as part of the Ajax side that reached the Champions League semi-finals the previous season, arriving at the Camp Nou regarded as one of the best young midfielders in world football.
He has since made 106 appearances in all competitions and scored nine goals, though has formed part of a Barcelona side that has struggled in recent campaigns and which currently sits ninth in La Liga following a difficult start to the season.
El Chiringuito, as per The Sun, are reporting that Barcelona could now cash in on the 24-year-old, who could emerge as a transfer target for City as the club consider long-term replacements for Fernandinho at the Etihad.
De Jong’s comfortability in receiving possession and setting the tempo from a deep position could see the Dutchman thrive in Pep Guardiola’s midfield, though new Barcelona manager Xavi is believed to be a huge admirer of the star’s talents.
Speculation has suggested a potential swap-deal including De Jong and Raheem Sterling, with Barcelona having been linked with a move for the England international, who has struggled for regular first-team football in recent months.
However, a cash deal appears more viable given the Spanish side’s desperate need for funds and City will be one of a number of sides interested should De Jong be made available.
