Chelsea in contact with Frenkie de Jong for a possible January move
According to ESPN (h/t Metro), Chelsea are among the two Premier League clubs who have made contact with Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong regarding a possible move in the January transfer window.
The Dutchman was heavily linked with a move to United over the summer transfer window after the appointment of Erik ten Hag. But, regardless of the clubs agreeing on a fee, the player snubbed the move.
Even though Barcelona rate de Jong very highly, they could do by selling him to raise some funds and stabilise their financial condition following a big-spending summer. The prospect of them bowing out of the Champions League in the group stage will not help matters.
Chelsea, who wanted to hijack United’s move to sign the former Ajax player. were left disappointed as the 25-year-old wanted to stay in Spain.
The Blues, along with Liverpool have made contact with the player’s representatives and have received encouragement regarding a possible January move.
Graham Potter’s task is to revamp an ageing Chelsea midfield with two players – Jorginho (30) and N’Golo Kante (31) out of contract next summer. Talks of an extension have been going on with the former, but he has asked for a pay rise. The latter, on the other hand, is out injured on a long-term basis and there have been no updates on his extension yet.
De Jong is a top-class player who can operate in central midfield or as a defensive midfielder. He is superb on the ball, can carry it forward and is robust in tackles and defensive work. In short, the 25-year-old is an ideal box-to-box midfielder with multiple good qualities.
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There was a reason why Chelsea wanted to sign him in the summer. It seems as if the opportunity will knock once again to get him in January. The blues should make sure they do not miss out on him this time.