As the De Jong saga reaches the end, Xavi is not ready to let him leave. Xavi would love to recruit Bernardo Silva for the Dutchman.
It is safe to say De Jong never really reached the levels he was expected to when Barcelona signed him from Ajax. De Jong arrived for 75 million euros in the summer of 2019, following an exceptional season at Ajax. He was the stateman signing to replace Busquets in the number ‘6’ position. The Barcelona coaches over the years have used De Jong as an interior, a pivot, and a libero in the defence. While he has shown excellence in all his positions, consistency brings his performances down.
On a deeper note, one can argue that Frenkie doesn’t excel in a single pivot as Busquets. He lacks several aspects that a Barcelona pivot needs to have. The Barcelona system has never enabled him to play at his strengths. But the way he drives the ball upward from a deeper position, using his close control and dribbling skills, is a treat for sore eyes. De Jong belongs to a unique set of midfielders; someone can offer so much more when played at their strengths.
Xavi prefers Bernardo Silva
The Barcelona board looks hellbound to sell Frenkie to manage the club’s wage cap. Manchester United and Chelsea are both interested in signing the player. Both the club intends to meet the 85 million euros asking price. The problem lies in agreeing on personal terms with Frenkie. As per several reports over the summer, De Jong has no intention to leave Barcelona or take a wage cut to fit the wage cap set by the board.
Diario Sport reports that the Barcelona board has made its intentions to sell De Jong clear to Xavi. The Barcelona legend has now agreed to let de Jong leave. He, however, has asked the club to sign Bernardo Silva if De Jong leaves. Silva is the preferred option to replace De Jong, and Xavi sees him as the perfect candidate to fill the midfield role alongside Pedri.
With the summer transfer window almost ending, it will be interesting to see the developments in the De Jong case and if Barcelona launches a bid to try Silva from Manchester City.
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