Chelsea Target De Jong as Midfield Replacement
Chelsea have reportedly identified Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong as a serious option, according to Football Insider. The Blues are said to be searching for a midfielder after Enzo Fernandez’s switch to Manchester City.
The Dutchman is close to full fitness after being sidelined since the start of the season. The 29-year-old joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2019 and has won three La Liga titles during his time at Camp Nou.
Barcelona Unlikely to Sell Without Big Offer
Chelsea previously tried to sign Lamine Camara on deadline day, but AS Monaco blocked the move. The West London club are not expected to revisit that pursuit and have moved on to other targets.
De Jong remains an important figure in Spain, with his contract running until 2029. The Catalans are reluctant to sell, so Chelsea would likely need to table a bid in excess of £50m.
Why De Jong Suits the Premier League
De Jong is comfortable in a box-to-box role or as a deep-lying playmaker, and he has also covered at centre-back in the past. His close control, dribbling in tight spaces and incisive passing between the lines would add quality to Chelsea’s engine room.
In my opinion, he is in the prime of his career and has the attributes to thrive in England. The big question is whether Chelsea will make a concrete approach next year, particularly given his fitness record and Barcelona’s stance.
Chelsea, meanwhile, face Everton next weekend following their 5-1 thrashing of AFC Bournemouth.
