Chelsea are pushing to complete a deal for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, according to Tom Roddy.
The two clubs are working to agree on a transfer fee that will see the Dutchman make the move to the Premier League, whilst the English side await De Jong’s final decision.
Manchester United Have Been Pursuing Target for Over 14 Weeks
Chelsea Can Meet Frenkie de Jong’s Demands
Erik ten Hag had named De Jong as one of his priority transfer targets over the summer and had Manchester United representatives working for over three months to try and bring the star to Manchester.
However, the 25-year-old was adamant on playing in the Champions League, which United cannot offer for the season ahead after a disappointing sixth place finish in 2021/2022. Despite De Jong playing under the United manager throughout their time at Ajax, the Dutch connection was seemingly not enough to persuade the midfielder to take a stint in the Europa League.
Read more: Former Chelsea ‘Flop’ Could Make Shock Summer Move to Manchester United
Thomas Tuchel’s side tasted European success as recent as 2021 after Kai Havertz’s goal saw off a desperate Manchester City in Porto. A third-placed finish last season secured the Blues’ spot in the Champions League this year, and De Jong could be lining up for them when the competition kicks-off.
Should He Stay or Should He Go? Legal Battle Could Decide De Jong’s Future
The Netherlands international is still keen to stay at Barcelona, though, but with the recent reports regarding potential legal action surrounding his contract, a transfer away from Spain may be the best option for all parties involved. Chelsea have reportedly indicated their willingness to cover De Jong’s salary debt, as well as the fee, to ensure they secure their man this summer.
Chelsea’s Action on the Transfer Market So Far:
The West London side started their season with a 1-0 win at Goodison Park as they faced former club legend Frank Lampard’s Everton. The club oversaw the departures of key players over the summer, including Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, Timo Werner and forward Romelu Lukaku on loan to Inter Milan.
Read more: Every Premier League Transfer Completed in Summer 2022
Tuchel has already bolstered his squad with the additions of four-time Premier League winner Raheem Sterling, AFCON champion Kalidou Koulibaly and promising left-back Marc Cucurella from Brighton & Hove Albion. They also tied down club captain Cesar Azpilicueta to a new two-year contract.
A creative and experienced midfielder at both club and international level like Frenkie de Jong could be a crucial signing in helping Chelsea compete with the ever-threatening Manchester City and Liverpool.
Transfer news LIVE: Chelsea ‘confident’ they will beat Manchester United to Frenkie de Jong #MUFC
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— Daily Record Sport (@Record_Sport) August 10, 2022
