Reports: Ajax starlet agrees terms with FC Barcelona
What's the story?
According to Mundo Deportivo (via AS), Frenkie de Jong has eventually agreed terms with FC Barcelona. The front page headline of the Catalan daily read "Yes to Barca", reporting the Ajax ace has given a ‘yes’ to Barcelona.
An agreement between the two clubs now remains to be set in place, with Ajax's sporting director, Marc Overmars, having already slapped €75 million valuation on De Jong.
In case you didn't know...
Frenkie de Jong is a rising star of Eredivisie and continues to be a hot property across Europe. Several high-profile are in hot pursuit of his signature, including the likes of Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City.
He was also heavily linked with a move to Barca in the summer transfer window of 2018, though nothing transpired.
The heart of the matter...
Frenkie de Jong is known for his versatility, having already played in a variety of roles at Ajax. However, despite being linked to numerous quality clubs, he had dismissed any rumours regarding a January transfer.
The 21-year-old has clearly stated his intention to stay put at Ajax until the end of the season.
"I am certainly not leaving this winter," De Jong said in an interview published via Ajax's Twitter account.
"I am 100 per cent staying until the summer."
"I don't know what other people are doing, but personally I would like it if the whole group stay together. We have had a fairly decent first half to the season."
"The atmosphere in the group is very good and we have a lot of quality - so I would be disappointed if people left."
Rumour rating: 6/10
Mundo Deportivo is a decent source when it comes to stories related to Barcelona. Besides, Barca's interest in De Jong is well-documented as they look to adorn their star-studded midfield with first-class youthful players.
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What's next?
In spite of his categorical statements concerning his stay at Johan Cruijff Arena, De Jong is allowed to conclude a pre-contract arrangement with any of the clubs prior to a summer transfer. The winter transfer window closes on 1 February.