Arsenal have reportedly placed Frenkie de Jong firmly on their radar for the upcoming summer transfer window, with the Dutch midfielder’s contract at FC Barcelona set to expire in 2026.
Mikel Arteta, a long-time admirer of de Jong’s style, believes the 28-year-old could be the perfect addition to the Gunners’ midfield.
Coming off a standout season under Hansi Flick, de Jong’s versatility and tactical intelligence make him an attractive target for Arsenal as they aim to strengthen their squad for both Premier League and Champions League challenges.
Currently, Barcelona are eager to secure de Jong’s future at Camp Nou. However, contract talks are complicated by the club’s demand for a significant salary reduction, coupled with the player’s desire to part ways with his agent, Ali Dursun, whose contract runs until 2026.
These hurdles have sparked speculation about whether de Jong will continue as the linchpin of Barcelona’s midfield or seek a fresh challenge abroad.
Arteta envisions de Jong complementing an already strong midfield featuring Martín Zubimendi, Martin Ødegaard, and Declan Rice.
His exceptional passing range, ability to control transitions, and knack for breaking defensive lines make him a rare talent in the transfer market.
Last season, de Jong featured in over 40 competitive matches, impressing with his consistency, ball retention, and composure under pressure.
Arsenal sources reveal the club will closely monitor his situation in the coming months, ready to act should an opportunity arise to bring the Dutch international to London.
