Koeman: I think De Jong will stay at Barcelona

Karan Tejwani

• 8 Feb 2023 10:55 CST
• 2 min read

Ronald Koeman has given his view on Frenkie de Jong’s future at Barcelona as the Dutch midfielder continues to be linked with a move away from the club.

De Jong was linked with a transfer to Manchester United last year and the English side negotiated with Barcelona for 17 weeks but a move wasn’t complete.

There have been reports through the season that he may still leave the club in the summer despite his desire to remain with the Blaugrana for the foreseeable future.

READ: Man Utd's De Jong hopes complicated by Sabitzer deal

Now, Koeman has spoken on the situation and he suggests that De Jong will be staying at Barcelona beyond the summer transfer window.

Koeman thinks De Jong will not move

Speaking on Bij andy in de auto, the Dutch national team manager said: "Frenkie is great. I think he'll stay. He's deservedly playing so much."

Koeman has worked with De Jong at both Barcelona and the Dutch national team and saw him as an essential part of his set up on both occasions.

READ: Ten Hag’s De Jong and Bellingham transfer stance outlined

This season, De Jong has seen more opportunities in the team, playing well alongside midfield partners like Gavi, Pedri and Sergio Busquets.

It’s believed that Xavi is a huge admirer of the player and wants to keep him close to the team, refusing to sell him despite the club being open to the idea.

He is one of Barcelona’s more sellable players and given they are in serious financial trouble, they are considering selling him but the manager wants to keep hold of the Dutchman.

It’s also believed that Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag hasn’t given up on De Jong, and he wants to keep pushing for him when the transfer window opens again in the summer.

At the moment, though, given his form and importance to the team, it seems as though the midfielder is more likely to stay at Barcelona than leave.