Chelsea step up their pursuit of Manchester United-linked Barcelona midfielder

Joan Laporta’s words during Franck Kessie’s presentation as a Barcelona player were heard loud and clear. 

“Frenkie de Jong is Barcelona player – we don’t want to sell him unless we have no other choice. Of course we know there are offers for de Jong – but we don’t want to sell him,” he said. 

The quote, unfortunately, has little face value. Barcelona are a club in deep financial despair, after all. As such, it is not surprising to see rumours flare-up. 

While Manchester United seem to be the overwhelming favourites, Relevo has reported that Chelsea are intensifying their pursuit for de Jong. They have ‘burst on to the scene in force’, and are very interested. 

Barcelona, meanwhile, are looking to sign Chelsea duo Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso. This operation is not connected to de Jong’s, however.

Multiple reports have suggested that Barça are demanding €85 million for the Dutch midfielder. United’s have reached that sum courtesy of a bid of €65 million plus €20 million in add-ons. 

Chelsea will be asked to shell out a similar amount, too. Reaching a personal agreement with the player will be easier, too, especially since the Blues are in the Champions League, unlike Man United.

Either way, this could be the start of an entirely different transfer saga, stay tuned.