Manchester City ready €104m for Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong

BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 05: Frenkie De Jong of FC Barcelona passes the ball during the LaLiga Santander match between FC Barcelona and Valencia CF at Spotify Camp Nou on March 05, 2023 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Silvestre Szpylma/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 05: Frenkie De Jong of FC Barcelona passes the ball during the LaLiga Santander match between FC Barcelona and Valencia CF at Spotify Camp Nou on March 05, 2023 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Silvestre Szpylma/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) /
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In their quest for midfield reinforcements, Manchester City has shifted their focus to FC Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong after their failed pursuit of Declan Rice, who is likely to join Arsenal barring any last-minute changes. According to The Sun (via Fichajes), the European champions have set their sights on the talented Dutchman, offering a substantial €104 million for his services.

When asked about the potential departure of Frenkie de Jong in 2022, Barcelona President Joan Laporta revealed that the club had previously turned down a staggering €100 million offer for the midfielder. Reflecting on the previous year, Laporta emphasized the importance of key players like De Jong, stating, “There are backbone players who are not on the market. We have received offers for Pedri, De Jong, Araujo, Christensen, Ansu…”

Despite FC Barcelona’s current economic challenges, they are determined to hold onto their valuable assets. However, City’s interest in De Jong poses a significant threat. With their newfound status as European champions and substantial financial resources, City is prepared to invest heavily in securing the services of the Dutch midfielder. Their pursuit comes at a time when the Catalan giants welcome Ilkay Gündogan, their first signing from this summer transfer window, adding competition to an already packed midfield with the presence of talents like Pedri, Gavi, and Franck Kessie.

Barcelona could green-light Frenkie de Jong to Manchester City

The potential departure of De Jong would undoubtedly be a significant loss for Barcelona. Since his arrival at the club in 2019, he has showcased his immense talent and versatility in midfield. His ability to control the tempo of the game, initiate attacking moves, and contribute defensively has made him a crucial asset for the team.

The Manchester giant’s interest in De Jong aligns with their desire to strengthen their midfield following the unsuccessful pursuit of Declan Rice. Manager Pep Guardiola seeks to bolster his squad with high-caliber reinforcements, and De Jong’s inclusion would undoubtedly elevate their midfield to another level.

While Barcelona is determined to retain De Jong’s services, the allure of playing for the treble winners along with their financial prowess may present a challenging scenario. The Catalan giants will need to carefully evaluate their options and weigh the potential benefits of a significant transfer fee against the loss of a talented player.

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Should Barcelona sell Frenkie de Jong for €104m to Manchester City?