REPORT: Chelsea ‘Very Attentive’ As They Target 70 Cap International To Replace Enzo Fernandez
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Chelsea are weighing up a potential move for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, according to reports in the Catalan media.
Sport claim that there are doubts over the long-term future of the Dutchman, who has been capped 70 times by his country.
De Jong is currently sidelined with a medial knee ligament tear, which means he hasn’t played a single minute of football so far this season.
In his absence, Barca have signed Rodri from Manchester City, while the likes of Marc Bernal, Pedri, Fermin Lopez, Gavi, Dani Olmo and Brian Farinas are already options for head coach Hansi Flick in midfield.
With that being the case, there are question marks over where de Jong will fit in when he returns to fitness within the next couple of months.
Why are Chelsea interested in the player?
Sport report that the Blues are “very attentive” to developments with regards to de Jong as they are seeking a replacement for Enzo Fernandez.
While Bournemouth’s Alex Scott is seen as a top target by the club’s recruitment team, manager Xabi Alonso may prefer a more experienced option.
De Jong is now 29 years of age, and during his illustrious career, he has won 10 major trophies with Barca and Ajax, including 4 league titles.
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Would de Jong be interested in the move?
The Netherlands international has shown no inclination to leave the Camp Nou previously, even when Barcelona tried to force him out due to his high salary.
Manchester United attempted on more than one occasion to bring de Jong to the Premier League, but they failed miserably.
Taking that into account, Chelsea may have an uphill task in persuading the midfielder to make the switch to Stamford Bridge, but if he does find himself down the pecking order following his return from injury, he may warm to the idea of moving teams.