Barcelona willing to part ways with star for €70 million fee amid interest from European giants - Reports
Barcelona are ready to part ways with midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who could bring in as much as €70 million in transfer revenue, amid interest from European giants Bayern Munich.
The Bavarian giants have not had their best season this year. After having controlled the domestic Bundesliga as long-term champions, this season brought about a shock change, as Bayer Leverkusen won the title instead. While Bayern remain in the Champions League, their failure to retain domination will mean delving into the transfer market.
A number of players have reportedly piqued their interest, as they look to return to their former heights as the German juggernauts. One is Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo and the other is his teammate Frenkie de Jong. The 26-year-old midfielder is of particular interest to Die Bayern as Barca need to sell players due to their financial situation.
While he may have been an indispensable member of the squad, Frenkie de Jong has struggled with injuries (majorly ankle issues) this season. According to a report from The Daily Briefing (via Barca Universal), the Catalan giants will not refuse a sale for the midfielder, as they look to make as much as €70 million if he leaves.
It is believed that De Jong is not particularly interested in leaving the club. There have been no moves from Bayern or any other suitors, and the midfielder is said to be enjoying life in Catalonia. However, this has not stopped the Blaugrana hierarchy from keeping his potential sale in mind as they look to balance the books.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are also said to be interested in the midfielder, and so are Manchester United, as the Red Devils notably made a push for him in 2022. However, he chose to stay at Camp Nou that summer and could reiterate this as his stance once again.
Frenkie de Jong stretchered off in Barcelona's loss against Real Madrid
Frenkie de Jong has been dealing with injuries this season, and he just returned from an ankle injury earlier this month. However, things seem to have compounded for the 26-year-old midfielder, as he had to be stretchered off during Barcelona's 3-2 La Liga loss to Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Sunday (April 21).
It was a significant blow for the Blaugrana as they saw their opponents come back to snatch all three points with a late goal from Jude Bellingham. Now, Real Madrid sit 11 points above second-placed Barcelona in the league table, and it looks impossible for Xavi's men to catch up to their eternal rivals, who have one hand on the title.
It is uncertain as to how long De Jong's injury would take to heal, but early reports from Sport (via Total Barca) have revealed he would need four to five weeks at least. It seems his season is over and the midfielder will have to focus on preparing to be fit for the Netherlands and EURO 2024.