Transfer Talk: De Jong on song as Premier League clubs circle

Frenkie de Jong is refusing to answer any questions about his club future as he tries to steer the Netherlands to World Cup glory.

The Barcelona playmaker snubbed a move to Manchester United last summer and has since returned to form in the heart of the Catalan outfit's engine room.

But links to the Red Devils and Liverpool remain and show no signs of slowing with the January transfer window fast approaching.

We take a look at the 25-year-old midfielder's options ahead of the last-16 clash against the United States today.

Fun-time Frenkie

De Jong has played almost every minute of the Netherlands' World Cup campaign so far and has rewarded boss Louis van Gaal with three accomplished performances.

His superb cross allowed Cody Gakpo to nod home the first goal of their tournament against Senegal and the midfielder popped up himself to net the second against Qatar.

He has been at the heart of Van Gaal's approach — attempting (223) and completing (202) the second-most passes of any Dutch player behind Nathan Ake.

Not sold on Old Trafford

United boss Erik ten Hag made signing De Jong his No1 priority last summer having worked with the former Ajax star in Amsterdam.

Barca were keen to sell as they tried to finance a summer splurge but the Dutchman was adamant that he wanted to stay in Catalonia despite the clubs agreeing a fee.

Old Trafford chiefs eventually gave up their pursuit and secured a deal for Brazil star Casemiro but midfield remains an area of concern at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils currently sit fifth in the Premier League and, while a January deal is unlikely, De Jong may be more open to a move if they can secure Champions League football for next season.

Reds on alert

Jurgen Klopp is keen to freshen up his ageing midfield and Liverpool are one of a number of top clubs hot on the heels of Borussia Dortmund and England sensation Jude Bellingham.

Thiago Alcantara and Jordan Henderson are both the wrong side of 30, while lynchpin Fabinho is 29. And while there is hope Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones can be the future in attacking roles, the Reds need a skilled holding player.

If Bellingham heads elsewhere, De Jong would be an ideal fit for Klopp's system, offering an alternative to Fabinho in a player who can snuff out danger before quickly starting a transition into attack.

And if Saudi Arabian interest in buying the Anfield club materialises, the Dutchman would be an ideal statement signing to usher in a new era.

Best Bar none

Despite Barca's best efforts, De Jong has so far remained determined to fight for his place at the club he joined from Ajax in 2019.

He has managed to earn a key role under Xavi and has been vital in the club's charge to the top of LaLiga this season — missing just one of the Blaugrana's 14 games, completing over 90% of his passes and chipping in with two goals and an assist.

The Catalan outfit have 37 points from a possible 42 to lead rivals Real Madrid but their European woes have continued with a shock early Champions League exit.

World is his oyster

United could only offer Europa League football this season which may have explained De Jong's reluctance to leave the Camp Nou.

If a Champions League club come calling in the summer window, he may take the hint this time and decide to go somewhere he is wanted.

A reunion with Ten Hag will be an attractive option if United's resurgence continues but a chance to join Liverpool's dynamic system would be hard to turn down and there would be interest from all over Europe.

First, De Jong will focus on his performances in Qatar and may well significantly bump up his price tag if the Oranje can go all the way.