Marc-Andre ter Stegen wants Frenkie de Jong to stay at Barcelona forever as the pair prepare to face Manchester United in the Europa League on Thursday.
None of you will need to be reminded about the constant speculation that took place over the summer when Frenkie de Jong was linked with a summer move to the Premier League.
Manchester United made him their prime target and spent over 100 days chasing his signature, but De Jong decided to remain at Camp Nou instead of jumping at the opportunity to reunite with former manager Erik ten Hag, who he had a good relationship with at Ajax.
Spanish publication Sport believe United will rekindle their interest in De Jong next summer.
It was believed that Chelsea wanted Frenkie de Jong too — but don’t they want everyone these days? Graham Potter will have midfielders coming out of his ears next season, should he still have the Chelsea job then.
Anyhow, Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen says De Jong is the perfect role model for youngsters Pedri and Gavi. He even said he would tie him down if that is what it would take to keep him at the club.
“He brings a lot to the team,” Ter Stegen said of De Jong, as per ESPN.
“I have a super high opinion of him, but I also expect a lot from him because he has so much talent. He sees and feels football in a different way. He is someone that players like Gavi and Pedri, for example, can look up to.
“I was hoping he would stay because, in the end, this is the type of player I want in my team. Of course, there were many rumours and discussions and whatever, but I am just happy he is here. I don’t want him to leave.
“I think one day I will put him something here [gestures tying him down] to just keep him here always, forever, and I hope he will be here for [a] long [time].”
