Barcelona could be the next target of cash-rich Chelsea, who have blown every other European club out of the water with their spending in the transfer market. João Félix, Enzo Fernández, and Mykhailo Mudryk all moved to the Premier League club in January and could be joined by Frenkie de Jong in the summer.
De Jong was amongst the players Barcelona tried to sell last summer as he was deemed surplus to requirements. This attracted interest from both Manchester United and Chelsea. Things have changed since then, with the Dutchman now a regular starter under Xavi.
He was the best midfielder on the pitch in the Blaugrana’s 1-0 win over Real Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. Against Valencia, he started well but had to be subbed off at the break because of a little issue in his hamstrings and tiredness.
However, De Jong’s improved situation at Camp Nou hasn’t changed Chelsea’s plans. The Blues have once again entered the race to sign the 25-year-old midfielder.
Barcelona could lose their star player to Chelsea
Chelsea broke the British transfer record to sign Argentina international Enzo Fernández for €121m from Benfica. Now, as per Fichajes (via Sportskeeda), they are ready to splurge €80m on De Jong to further strengthen their midfield.
On Tuesday, Barcelona president Joan Laporta insisted (via The Athletic) Xavi’s side are fine in midfield and their priority is to strengthen elsewhere.
"“We probably would need a striker, but someone would have to leave first. In midfield, we are in a good place plus we have players coming through La Masia that will make it into the first team,” Laporta said."
However, if Chelsea are successful in signing De Jong, Barcelona might be forced to change their transfer plans, especially considering Pedri’s injury record. The Spanish midfielder has been on the sidelines since his injury at home against United in the Europa League.