Frenkie de Jong has once again stated that he wants to remain with Barcelona this summer amid suggestions that Manchester United are still interested in his signature.
The 26-year-old appeared to be Erik ten Hag's leading transfer target in his first summer as head coach of the Red Devils, and the club spent much of the market pursuing the Netherlands international.
Despite his status as an important player, Barcelona's financial problems led to suggestions that De Jong could be available for around £70m, which Man United appeared prepared to pay to bring him to Old Trafford.
However, the midfielder said on multiple occasions that he wanted to remain at Camp Nou, and he was in strong form for Xavi's side during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring twice and providing four assists in 43 appearances.
Barcelona are again under pressure to make some sales this summer due to their off-the-field issues, and Man United are still said to be keen to sign the former Ajax youngster.
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However, De Jong has again insisted that he is planning to remain at Camp Nou beyond the end of this summer's transfer window despite the fresh speculation.
"That has been clear to me, also last summer when things were restless for a while," De Jong told Voetbal International when asked if he would be staying at Barcelona. "I always knew that I wanted to stay at Barcelona. That's why it wasn't so stressful for me last summer.
"Also, I had just signed a contract extension [in 2020] so I always felt that I was in control and able to decide for myself. That's why I didn't bother [worrying about it]. I feel good at Barcelona and assume that I will still be playing here next season."
De Jong also opened up on the challenge facing Barcelona following Sergio Busquets's exit, with the experienced midfielder leaving the club on a free transfer.
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"It will be different next season when Busquets is gone. He played for Barcelona for 15 years, you will notice that when such a great player leaves," added the Dutchman.
"I really enjoyed playing with him, especially when we were next to each other. We complemented each other really well and I learned a lot from him even though we are different types of players."
Man United boosted their midfield last summer by bringing in Christian Eriksen and Casemiro, with both players impressing for the club during the 2022-23 campaign.
However, Ten Hag is said to want at least one midfielder in the current market, with Chelsea's Mason Mount and West Ham United's Declan Rice both thought to be targets.
There are also likely to be departures in that area of the field this summer, with Fred, Scott McTominay and Donny van de Beek all being linked with moves away from the club.
Matt Law
