Barcelona midfield mainstay will not leave this summer amidst exit rumours – report

Barcelona’s two new signings made their first appearance on the turf of the Estadi Olimpic de Lluis Companys before kick-off last night when the Blaugrana took on AS Monaco for the Joan Gamper Trophy.

Now rejuvenated by two new arrivals, it is time for Hansi Flick’s side to pioneer some much-needed departures. After all, the club is still recovering from the massive financial crisis that crippled its transfer activity.

Frenkie de Jong is one of the biggest names of the several players linked with a departure, but his untimely injury has not helped the Blaugranas’ case.

Likely to stay

Earlier this week, word had it that the Catalans were open to selling De Jong for just €60 million this summer, a significant discount from the previous asking price.

Frenkie de Jong will not leave Barcelona this summer. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

With Manchester United interested in the midfielder, a move was not entirely ruled out. Now, according to reports from Santi Ovalle, the Dutchman will not leave this summer and will thus stay a part of Hansi Flick’s plans for the upcoming season.

Needless to say, this comes as a massive blow to Barcelona’s transfer plans as his sale was seen as one of the best manoeuvres to return to the 1:1 rule.

A queer injury

The midfield superstar was injured in Barcelona’s clash against Real Madrid late in April. Despite initially being given a favourable prognosis, he did not return in time for the Euros and was expected to be available for pre-season.

The US Tour has come and gone and Barcelona are now staring towards the first official game of the new season.

Yet, there is no update or projected return date for De Jong and his situation is undoubtedly deeply worrying.