Frenkie de Jong going nowhere! Barcelona determined to keep Dutchman this summer despite Man Utd interest
- Almost left for Manchester United last season
- Finding best form for Barca this year
- Starred in Clasico win on Thursday
WHAT HAPPENED? Barcelona reportedly came close to selling De Jong last summer after a disappointing campaign from the midfielder. But they have changed their stance, with the centre-midfielder establishing himself as a vital part of manager Xavi's system. As a result, they won't listen to any offers for De Jong, despite strong interest from Manchester United, according to SPORT.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Man Utd nearly signed De Jong last summer after Barcelona appeared ready to let the player go due to their financial issues. Although these economic problems are far from over, the Dutchman's recent performances should keep him away from the exit door this time around.
WHAT THEY SAID: Xavi insisted that he doesn't want De Jong to leave after a series of strong performances: "We're seeing the best Frenkie since me and my staff arrived here at Barcelona," Xavi said at a press conference on February 11. "De Jong is doing great in both attack and defence, he has brutal confidence and we’re happy with him."
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WHAT NEXT FOR DE JONG? The midfielder will continue to star for Barcelona, and appears set to stay at the club beyond this summer.