Manchester City have reportedly joined Juventus in the race to land unsettled Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong, who could depart Camp Nou in the summer. As reported by Calciomercato, Pep Guardiola has identified the Dutchman as a perfect midfield reinforcement ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Man City’s calamitous collapse in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final tie against Real Madrid resulted in another heartbreaking European exit, casting doubt on Guardiola’s future at the Etihad Stadium. Despite admitting he ‘may not be good enough to win the Champions League with Man City’ (via Sky Sports), the Spanish manager is already looking to strengthen his star-studded squad.
De Jong, who joined Barcelona carrying a reputation as one of Europe’s brightest prospects in 2019, has failed to live up to expectations in La Liga. The midfielder’s topsy-turvy form has seen him tumble down the pecking order under Xavi, surrendering his starting berth to La Masia’s rising stars Gavi and Pedri.
Even though Xavi has recently reiterated his affection for De Jong, the 24-year-old is closer to leaving Spain than staying. Juventus are long-term admirers of the former Ajax star, but the Bianconeri will have to beat Man City to capture his signature in the summer.
De Jong could replace underperforming Arthur, who has experienced another underwhelming season in Turin. Juventus are ready to dispose of the ex-Barcelona flop and replace him with the new one. However, Juve’s only chance of signing the Netherlands international may require sending Matthijs de Ligt in the opposite direction.
Unlike Juventus, Man City are not having financial troubles and would not mind spending some extra funds to convince Barcelona to sanction the deal. The reigning Premier League holders will wave goodbye to long-serving stalwart Fernandinho in the summer.
The Brazilian’s imminent departure will amplify Guardiola’s need for a new midfielder. Unfortunately, that’s not a good piece of news for Juventus.