According to Frenkie de Jong, he had no plans to leave Barcelona this summer.
The 25-year-old midfielder was frequently mentioned as a potential transfer to the Premier League as the Spanish powerhouses tried to find a solution to their financial issues.
De Jong has been wanted by Chelsea for a number of years, and despite Chelsea’s confidence in securing his signature, a transfer away from the Camp Nou has not yet taken place.
The Dutch international was reportedly in negotiations with the Blues regarding a potential transfer to Stamford Bridge as former manager Thomas Tuchel sought to strengthen his midfield with more originality.
De Jong’s contract with Barcelona expires in 2026, and there has been talk that he will leave because of the salary disagreement between the player and the club.
The Telegraph claims that as of July, the Spanish giants still owed him £17 million in back pay from the outbreak.
Despite the speculations, the Dutchman admitted in a Marca-reported interview with Ziggo Sport that he made the decision to remain in Barcelona in May. “I was serene. In May, I made the decision to stay.
I maintained my composure throughout this time, and my opinion hasn’t altered at all, he said. “However, you are aware that the pressure would then begin to build. Yes, from the president and the newspapers. in fact, from everywhere. However, I wished to remain at Barça, so I was never puzzled by it.
The midfielder, who is valued at £104 million, continued by describing his friendship with Xavi at a time when it seemed from the outside that his future at Barcelona was in doubt.
We don’t speak to Xavi very often, but when we do, it’s always about football, he added.
“I anticipated that he would play less minutes in the early going. I desire to once more start games. I didn’t start against Bayern and I intend to do so against Real Madrid. Perhaps he has already made up his mind, but often we don’t find out until the game day.
De Jong has made seven La Liga appearances for Barcelona this year, directly helping one goal.
Despite his dismal results in the Champions League, his stellar performances have propelled the Catalan team to the top of the league.
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