Barcelona manager Xavi has admitted that Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong wanted to stay at Camp Nou and he was very clear about his future.
The 25-year-old midfielder was at the centre of a lengthy transfer drama between United and Barca. The Red Devils were eager to complete a £72 million move. Chelsea and Bayern Munich were also interested in signing him on loan.
The player was offered the unforgiving choice of drastically reducing his pay or quitting the team. He eventually turned down all the other offers and remained with the La Liga giants.
Now, he is reaping the benefits with a title challenge. De Jong is expected to start for Barcelona as they gear up to take on United in the Europa League play-off.
And Xavi admitted that his midfielder had no plans to leave the Spanish giants last summer. As reported by The Sun, he said:
“He was very clear with me. He wanted to stay with us and there was no doubt. He is our player and I am very happy and satisfied with his performance and leadership. He is in a great moment, like the whole team.”
De Jong, who is under contract until 2026, has made 26 appearances this season, with both two of his goals and one of his assists coming in La Liga.
As an alternative, United decided to sign Casemiro from Barca’s rivals Real Madrid, spending an initial £60m and then adding Marcel Sabitzer on loan in January.
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De Jong also expressed his desire to remain with Barcelona while his relationship progressed well in the Spanish capital. However, his girlfriend Mikky Kiemeney could not help but aim a dig at United for failing to land her man.
Since then, Casemiro turned out to be the club’s best summer signing as he has been a vital player in every match for United.
