Arsenal are closely monitoring Barcelona midfielder Frenkie De Jong’s situation ahead of his contract expiry in 2026, Spanish publication Fichajes has claimed.
The Emirates side have reportedly earmarked the Dutch international as a potential reinforcement to Mikel Arteta’s midfield next summer, when his deal at the Nou Camp runs out.
Arteta is believed to be a big admirer of the 28-year-old and sees De Jong as a ‘perfect’ addition to his star-studded midfield alongside Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi and Martin Odegaard.
Barcelona are aiming to extend De Jong’s contract beyond 2026, but it would mean the Dutchman taking a significant pay cut from his reported £418,000-per-week wages.
De Jong, who joined Barcelona from Ajax in the summer of 2019, made 46 appearances under Hansi Flick last season, scoring two goals and providing two assists in La Liga.
Arsenal Keen on Signing Frenkie De Jong
Frenkie de Jong
According to Fichajes, Arsenal will continue to monitor De Jong’s situation closely over the coming months as they await developments in his contract negotiations with Barcelona.
The Dutch midfielder’s current situation is said to be ‘generating excitement’ in North London, as he could become a free agent in 2026 and complement Arsenal’s already strong midfield.
De Jong has made 259 appearances for Barcelona to date and helped the Catalans win a league and cup double last term, taking his trophy tally to six at the Nou Camp.
The 'world-class' 28-year-old is also a one-time Eredivisie and Dutch Cup winner from his time at Ajax.
Arsenal have spent just over £200m on six new signings this summer, with former Sporting Lisbon ace Viktor Gyokeres the latest to join last month.
Arteta’s side have also welcomed both Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard as reinforcements in midfield, while deals were also struck for Kepa Arrizabalaga, Cristhian Mosquera and Noni Madueke.
The Gunners may be anticipating outgoings before the transfer deadline, as uncertainty remains over Leandro Trossard’s future at the Emirates.
According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Fabrizio Romano, the Belgium forward remains ‘one to watch’ in the final two weeks of the summer.
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