Mikel Arteta Sees PSG Target Who Received New Offer From Barcelona as Vital to Midfield | OneFootball

Frenkie de Jong’s future at Barcelona is up in the air as he nears the final year of his contract. Amid interest from several European clubs, one Premier League team has placed him at the top of their wishlist.

Last October, SPORT reported that Manchester United, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain have all been keeping a close eye on de Jong’s situation.

De Jong has made it clear he wants to stay at Barcelona, but PSG’s history of signing players from the club makes them a strong contender. Barcelona, however, appears willing to let him go, with Mundo Deportivo noting that a new contract isn’t a priority due to financial issues.

Most recently, CaughtOffside revealed that Liverpool have discussed their summer transfer targets, with de Jong among them. However, his wages could be a sticking point.

Barcelona are said to be willing to sell de Jong for around €35 million, but his high salary at the Nou Camp has previously caused issues for Liverpool and other clubs.

Does Arsenal intend to take the lead for Frenkie de Jong?

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Fichajes reports that Arsenal have shifted their transfer focus and are now targeting De Jong as their main midfield reinforcement. This change comes after Joshua Kimmich ruled out leaving Bayern Munich and decided to renew his contract with the Bavarians.

Mikel Arteta is aiming to strengthen his midfield with the potential departures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey in mind. The report also suggests that Arteta views De Jong as the key piece to complete his midfield alongside Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard.

This follows a report from journalist Ferran Correas, who revealed that Barcelona have offered De Jong a new contract that would extend his stay for another three years at his current salary. However, the deal doesn’t cover his deferred wages.