In a major development, journalist Alberto Martinez is reporting that Barcelona midfield superstar Frenkie de Jong has emerged as a target for Bayern Munich heading into the summer.
The Bavarian giants are looking to reinforce their squad after faltering in the Bundesliga title race this season and have set aside a budget of €150 million for reinforcements.
De Jong on Bayern’s agenda
As such, one of the targets for Bayern Munich heading into the summer window is Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
The Netherlands international has been a long-time target for the Bundesliga heavyweights, who have had their eye on him since his days at AFC Ajax.
In fact, as per the report, Bayern had explored the possibility of a move for De Jong last summer as well but nothing came of it.
However, they are now interested in signing De Jong again heading into the 2024 summer window and are prepared to go big for him.
Barcelona hope to get €60-70 million
De Jong, for his part, is happy at Barcelona and has previously expressed his anger at the relentless speculations surrounding his future at the club.
However, Barça themselves are not ruling out a departure for the Dutchman as long as a good offer comes along for him.
The Catalans are aware that they need to raise €100 million before June 30 and as such the sale of a player – possibly one of De Jong, Raphinha, or Ronald Araujo is being looked at.
Barcelona believe that they could get €60-70 million in exchange for De Jong, which would solve a large chunk of their problem.
Furthermore, the Dutch midfielder is one of the highest earners at the club along with Robert Lewandowski and his exit would save a major chunk of their wage budget too.
Beyond that, Barcelona believe that their midfield department is well-stocked with players like Ilkay Gundogan, Pedri, Gavi, and Fermin Lopez while they are also looking to sign Aleix Garcia from Girona.
As such, the possibility of selling De Jong is not entirely off the table. For now, there is nothing concrete but Bayern Munich are interested and Barcelona might be open to doing business.
