Frenkie de Jong could be set to depart Barcelona this summer amid transfer interest from Manchester United.
The Netherlands international has struggled to consistently impress since joining the Catalan giants in 2019. De Jong rose to prominence during Ajax's unlikely run to the Champions League semi-final that season, and he has been tipped to reunite with former boss Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.
The midfielder had stressed he is not keen to push for an exit this summer, and has become a key player in recent months under Xavi. However, Barcelona's well-documented financial woes has reportedly led the 25-year-old to be identified as a saleable asset.
It is also an area of the pitch where the club boast remarkable strength in depth, despite their struggles this season. De Jong has often been used on the right of a midfield three with Barcelona, and admitted following the Netherland's Nations League emphatic win over Belgium that he prefers a deeper role.
He told reporters: “I play a lot differently here than I do at Barça. I think this suits me much better. I like to be the first player to receive the ball from the defenders.”
Xavi recently confirmed Barcelona's financial situation could lead the club to make certain 'decisions' when asked about the future of De Jong. Here's a look at their other midfield options which could help ease the blow of a summer sale.
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Sergio Busquets
The last survivor of the famous Barcelona and Spain sides which dominated football almost a decade ago, Busquets remains a key player under his former team-mate. The 33-year-old missed just two La Liga fixtures this season - both due to suspension - and has one more year left on his current deal.
Busquets continues to occupy the anchor role in midfield which De Jong has confirmed is his best position. The Champions League and World Cup winner is obviously not the long-term solution, but his continued importance could help soften the blow of a summer exit for the former Ajax man.
Gavi
De Jong is not the only Barcelona midfielder currently facing an uncertain future, with wonderkid Gavi currently locked in a contract stand-off. The 17-year-old has enjoyed a breakout campaign by making 34 La Liga appearances, but has just one year left on his contract.
Gavi recently became Spain's youngest ever goalscorer after netting in their 2-2 draw against Czech Republic in the Nations League. Liverpool are among the clubs credited with an interest in the midfielder, but recent reports indicate a new deal at the Camp Nou could be close.
Nico Gonzalez
Gonzalez was another young prospect handed a chance to impress this season, and the 20-year-old was a first-team regular in the early parts of the season. A toe injury brought an early end to the midfielder's campaign, although he had fallen out favour in the weeks prior to the setback.
Gonzalez has two years left on his contract, and the prospect of a season-long loan switch for first-team minutes has been mooted. Real Betis, Real Sociedad and Valencia are among the clubs linked with a move.
Franck Kessie
The Ivory Coast international has already agreed a free transfer to Barcelona following a title-winning season with AC Milan. Kessie made more than 200 appearances for the club, and the 25-year-old is said to have agreed a four-year contract at the Camp Nou.
Kessie's arrival will inevitably raise questions over the former Atalanta star being a potential replacement for de Jong, but there is still one hurdle to overcome. Recent reports suggest Barcelona are currently unable to register their new signings including Andreas Christensen due to Financial Fair Play, although the club are said to be confident of avoiding this outcome.
Pedri
The current jewel in Barcelona's crown, a hamstring injury restricted the 19-year-old's impact this season. However, Pedris' breakthrough with club and country has seen the CIES Football Observatory name midfielder along with Gavi in the top three of European football's most exciting teenage talents.
Pedri has already earned 12 caps for his country, and was awarded with Laa Liga's goal of the season award for his stunning winner against Sevilla in April. The teenager agreed a new long-term contract in October last year, and along with Gavi is seen as the future of Barcelona's midfield.
Sergi Roberto
The versatile squad option looked set to leave Barcelona after spending more than a decade in the club's senior setup. However, the arrival of Xavi looks to have changed Roberto's fortunes with the Blaugrana legend valuing the 30-year-old's versatility.
The academy graduate has often been utilised as a right-back during recent seasons, but is also seen as a rotation option in midfield. Recent reports suggest Roberto will be used as Busquets' deputy next season, while also providing cover for the advanced midfield positions.
