Manchester City’s pursuit of a suitable replacement for Ilkay Gundogan has taken an exciting turn, as their interest in Barcelona’s midfielder Frenkie de Jong continues to grow. This strategic shift comes after City decided to abandon their pursuit of West Ham United’s Declan Rice, indicating their strong intention to find a worthy successor for Gundogan, who recently made the move to Camp Nou.

Barcelona’s Financial Struggles and De Jong’s Uncertain Future

Frenkie de Jong, a talented midfielder at the age of 26, turned down an offer to join Manchester United last year, expressing his preference to continue his journey with Barcelona under the guidance of Xavi Hernández. However, Barcelona’s colossal wage bill and financial struggles may force them to part ways with the Dutch midfielder. De Jong currently earns a weekly wage of €465,000, and it is speculated that Barcelona will demand a fee of around £90 million (€104 million) for his services.

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Pep Guardiola’s Continued Admiration for De Jong

Manchester City’s coach, Pep Guardiola, is a known admirer of Frenkie de Jong and had previously made an unsuccessful bid for him back in 2019. With their primary target, Declan Rice, closing in on a £100 million move to Arsenal, City’s quest for a suitable replacement for Gundogan has gained urgency. De Jong’s exceptional abilities and versatility make him an ideal candidate to fill the midfield void left by Gundogan’s departure.

Barcelona’s Financial Pressure and Potential Player Sales

While De Jong’s substantial wage demands may pose a stumbling block, Barcelona’s financial struggles may necessitate a player sale. Quoting Xavi, Barcelona’s coach, from a statement in February regarding a previous transfer saga involving De Jong, he said, “He was very clear with me. He wanted to stay with us and there was no doubt… He is in a great moment, like the whole team.” However, the club’s financial situation may force them to consider offers for the talented midfielder.

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Transfer Buzz: Szoboszlai, Bijlow, Trapp, Osorio, and Timber

In other transfer news, RB Leipzig’s Dominik Szoboszlai has reportedly completed his medical check and is expected to make a move to Liverpool following the activation of his €70 million release clause, as per The Athletic. Meanwhile, Manchester United, after finding Andre Onana of Internazionale too expensive, is exploring alternative goalkeeper options, including Feyenoord’s Justin Bijlow and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Kevin Trapp.

Elsewhere, West Ham United and AC Milan are vying for the signature of South American wonderkid Dario Osorio, the 19-year-old winger from Universidad de Chile. Additionally, Arsenal is finalizing their deal for Ajax’s promising defender Jurrien Timber.

Lastly, Al Nassr has expressed interest in Sevilla goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. The Morocco international might be on the move from Spain this summer if a suitable offer is made, although reports indicate his reluctance to relocate to Saudi Arabia.

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A Pivotal Decision Awaits

As Manchester City eyes Frenkie de Jong as a potential replacement for Ilkay Gundogan, the future of the talented midfielder remains uncertain. Will Barcelona’s financial pressure force them to part ways with De Jong, paving the way for a reunion with Pep Guardiola at City? Only time will tell. Football enthusiasts around the world eagerly await the outcome of this transfer saga, which could significantly impact both Barcelona’s midfield and Manchester City’s quest for continued success.

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