Frenkie de Jong makes remarkable statement after Barcelona transfer soap opera

Imre Himmelbauer

• 20 May 2023 12:25 BST
• 3 min read

Frenkie de Jong has discussed his situation at Barcelona in conversation with Ziggo Sport .

The now 26-year-old midfielder won his first Spanish league title on Sunday after moving to Barca four years ago for €86 million.

Twelve months ago, Barcelona did their best to sell the Netherlands international, but the playmaker, who has a contract until mid-2026, refused the summer-long advances of Manchester United.

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Barcelona wanted De Jong to leave, partly because of his huge salary. The club openly showcased him and even threatened lawsuits against him, but in the end the midfielder remained at Spotify Camp Nou.

Despite the transfer soap opera, Frenkie insists that his relationship with president Joan Laporta is good.

“I'm fine with the chairman, I've never been bad with him,” he insisted. “Of course we had that situation in the summer, but my relationship with him is fine.”

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He even received a hug from the president during the celebrations.

"In Spain they are of course a bit more emotional. Especially in good times, that is even more evident,” a smiling De Jong said.

De Jong wants Barca improvement - and Lionel Messi

The assignment for the year ahead is to challenge in Europe. This season, Barcelona were knocked out of the Champions League at the group stage and then eliminated in the intermediate round of the Europa League by Erik ten Hag's Man Utd.

"I think that there is room for improvement in every line, but that is what every team wants in principle," De Jong said. “It is difficult for me to say where we can strengthen because I do not know what is possible. If you really want to get players who make your team better, it costs a lot of money. So that depends on what the club has available."

One of the names that is mentioned most is that of Lionel Messi. The 35-year-old Argentinian is unlikely to renew his expiring contract with PSG.

In addition to Barcelona, Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal and David Beckham’s Inter Miami are also reportedly interested.

“Of course you hear something, but I don't know more about it than you know at the moment. He's a fantastic player and it would be nice if he comes back, but I have no idea whether or not it will happen,” he said.

The revelation that LaLiga are ready to give Barcelona’s viability plans a green light means De Jong’s wish of uniting with Messi has taken a step closer.