One of Europe’s most talented young midfielders Frenkie de Jong seems destined to join Paris Saint-Germain despite interest from a host of clubs including Barcelona and Manchester City.
The Ajax star has been the subject of intense speculation since last summer and his performances for Ronald Koeman’s improving Netherlands have put him in the shop window.
Barcelona had looked to be favourites to sign the player and were confident their great history would be a major selling point in any negotiations.
But PSG have reportedly reached an agreement that would see the player pen a five-year deal. AS says de Jong will sign a five-year deal worth an estimated €8million a season with Ajax receiving a €75million fee.
PSG boss Thomas Tuchel has been in the market for a defensive midfielder and de Jong would appear to fit the bill perfectly.
Last year, de Jong went out of his way to play down reports that he’d already signed for PSG which alerted a host of clubs. Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola had identified the player as a potential replacement for Fernandinho though he was put off by the fact they couldn’t sign de Jong until the summer.
When asked about potential replacements for Ferdandino last week, Guardiola told reporters: “Maybe there aren’t many, but there are players who can play in that role.
“Specifically Fernandinho’s role, it’s so difficult to find. He knows the Premier League, after three years together here, he knows everything and that’s so important. But, of course, for the next season it’s an important target to find. He’ll be 34 and he cannot play every few days.”