Barcelona’s director of football Mateu Alemany has revealed the club are yet to make a choice on whether they are going to sell Frenkie de Jong this summer. The 59-year-old was faced with questions on the player, who has been strongly linked to Manchester United following the appointment of his former manager Erik ten Hag.
De Jong’s value is alleged to have plateaued after three seasons in Catalonia, meaning Barcelona could also be forced to think about a sale.
Moreover, the Spanish giants may be faced with more financial difficulties this summer and offloading De Jong could ease the pressure.
But Alemany made it clear he feels the technician is a vital cog in Xavi’s machine.
“We have not made any decisions on the squad, de Jong is significant for us,” Alemany said.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag snubs Ajax end-of-season trip as ‘there’s rather a lot to do’ at Manchester United
Express Sport understands that while United are all for De Jong, the speculation has got well ahead of the truth.
Ten Hag is open to a reunion together with his former player as he prepares to get to work at Old Trafford.
De Jong built a repute as considered one of the brightest young midfielders in all of world football under the 52-year-old tactician, as Ajax reached the Champions League semi-finals in 2019.
Donny van de Beek is anticipated to be handed a clean slate at United following his loan spell with Everton and there could now be major changes to United’s midfield.
Following talk an agreement was close with Man United, De Jong was understood to be frustrated by the intensive speculation as he focuses on ending the season strongly with Barcelona.
United could have as much as £150million to spend on transfers this summer, plus whatever money is raised through player sales.
With Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic set to go away the club, United shall be in need of not less than two midfielders.
James Garner could possibly be handed his breakthrough moment following a formidable stint on loan at Nottingham Forest this season.
