Frenkie de Jong's father confirms 'top 5 European clubs' have been in touch

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong is unlikely to leave Camp Nou anytime soon, his father has confirmed, despite claiming that ‘five European clubs’ have been in touch.

De Jong was a €75m signing for Barcelona in 2019 after he shone as the standout player in a new Ajax golden generation. But the Dutchman has struggled this season amid the wider difficulties ongoing at Camp Nou and his sale could even help ease the dire financial situation.

A recent report from Spain suggested that De Jong could be one of three high profile players that new coach Xavi is prepared to cut from his squad alongside Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Sergino Dest.

The player’s father has taken a different view, insisting that a move isn’t likely in the near future and explaining why clubs like Manchester United of Bayern Munich would be off the table.

“Munich or Manchester? It's often bad weather there. Of course it's about football, but it does matter,” John de Jong told Dutch outlet AD.

“Of course, I know that Barcelona needs money and a great offer for Frenkie could help, but I don't see it happening anytime soon. Although, the five top European clubs have all called.”

Life in Barcelona appears to be especially important for the player and his girlfriend, Mikky Kiemeny, and they are currently decorating a new home closer to Camp Nou.

“They are having such a great time in Barcelona. Life is great there. I'm there often. Even now you are in the sun with 16 degrees,” De Jong Sr continued.

“I sometimes sit there on a terrace before a game and I see hundreds of people with a shirt with Frenkie’s name. Those Catalans are absolutely crazy about him. I pinch my arm. Is this really true?"

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