Frenkie De Jong has responded to rumours linking him with a move to Barcelona, claiming that he is likely to stay at Ajax for one more season.
In an interview with Dutch television station AT5, Frenkie De Jong has addressed speculation linking him with a move to Barcelona in the summer transfer window. The Dutch starlet has hinted that he could stay at Ajax this season while leaving the door open for a move to Camp Nou.
Frenkie De Jong is a jewel of the latest batch of senior footballers in Dutch football. Having joined Ajax from Willem II in 2015, the player initially impressed in a loan spell at his boyhood club before enjoying his breakthrough campaign in an Ajax shirt in the 2016-17 season.
Last season, injury issues affected De Jong’s progress. But, the 21-year-old still managed to impress in the games that he did feature in. Two solid campaigns at Ajax have not gone unnoticed, with one of the biggest clubs in the world scouring the possibility to sign him. Barcelona are showing serious interest in the youngster, with the hopes of making him Andres Iniesta’s long-term successor.
In fact, De Jong is one of three players that Barcelona have had their eyes on, with the likes of Matthijs de Ligt and Kasper Dolberg also heavily scouted. But, the 21-year-old has been one of their key targets, with the hopes of bolstering their midfield.
Andres Iniesta left Barcelona after an illustrious 22-year spell with the club. The veteran midfielder’s departure has since been followed by Paulinho’s Camp Nou exit as well. With Denis Suarez and Andre Gomes facing uncertain futures at Barcelona, the need to bolster midfield is urgent, despite the arrival of Arthur Melo.
Frenkie De Jong is thus, a viable target for Barcelona. While he has predominantly featured for Ajax as a centre-back, the player’s primary position is that of a midfielder. Most importantly, the young Dutchman possesses a keen eye for a pass while also being a strong dribbler, which further suggests just how naturally he could fit in the Barcelona midfield.
That he is just 21 also means that Barcelona could be patient with him while he is groomed to be the long-term solution in midfield. But, De Jong has hinted that he is likely to stay at Ajax for one more season while also adding that a move to Barcelona could be on the cards, albeit in minced words.
When asked if he’ll choose to stay at Ajax over a Barcelona move, the player said, “Yes, you heard me correctly,” before adding, “I can’t promise that (I’ll stay at Ajax). But as things stand now, I believe I’ll be at Ajax for another season.”
The youngster’s comments will come as a cruel blow to Barcelona, who are eager to bolster their midfield this summer. While they are likely to launch the offensive for him imminently, it is looking likely that De Jong will still be an Ajax player by the time the summer transfer window is slammed shut.
