When asked about what lies in the future of Frenkie de Jong at Barcelona amid heavy links to a Man United move, Xavi Hernandez said: “I have spoken with him. I value him very much.
“For me he is a fundamental footballer, but then there is the financial situation and fair play. He can give us a lot as centre back. I like him in that position.”
This interesting revelation from Xavi claiming he’ll use De Jong as a centre-back can perhaps indicate that he doesn’t hold him key to his future plans at Barca.
Transforming a quality midfielder like Frenkie into a centre-back probably won’t go down well with anyone, despite his ability to slot into that role.
Moreover, Barca just signed Andreas Christensen and look set to sign another centre-back, which would further limit De Jong’s opportunities.
United have agreed a €85m fee for the midfielder, but he continues to resist a move as he hasn’t received his deferred wages of over £17m.