Picture Credit: FC Barcelona
As the 2021-22 season is nearing its end, the transfer rumours have started brewing especially around the English Premier League giants Manchester United. The latest reports have suggested that Red Devils are heavily linked with Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong from FC Barcelona.
The news was reported by Gerard Romero, a Spanish Journalist, on his Twitch channel. Romero also alluded to the fact that there is a 95% probability that the transfer will go through. He also addressed that this transfer will be specifically financial as Barcelona has been struggling with a lot of debt.
His tweet said, “Before the end of the league and with a 95% probability, Frenkie de Jong will be transferred to Manchester United. It is a pure economic issue. Barça needs to sell a player who has not been top at the club.”
This rumour has been moving around for quite some time now since Manchester United signed former Ajax manager Erik Ten Hag. De Jong came to prominence under Ten Hag and speculation of a reunion was through the roof. Similarly, Manchester United need a player to fit in the holding midfield or number six role where Frenkie de Jong strives.
If I was De Jong, I would continue here for many more years: Xavi
When asked about the rumours in late April, Barca manager Xavi expressed that he wants the Dutch midfielder to stay in the summer. “I haven’t talked with him about his future,” disclosed the Barcelona manager.
“He is playing at a very good level and has to continue here – he can be one of the best midfielders in the world for years to come. If it were up to me, I would continue here for many more years. He is very important and can mark an era here. He has to score, assist and he has to be the protagonist,” Xavi continued
But while speaking in December 2021, Xavi had proclaimed that the 24-year-old will not leave Barca as he is an integral part of the team. He said, “Frenkie de Jong will not leave the club. He’s not for sale - we consider Frenkie as a key player for Barca.”