Manchester United and Chelsea cool interest in veteran Barcelona star – report

Frenkie de Jong’s future at Barcelona has become increasingly uncertain, with Manchester United and Chelsea cooling their interest in signing the Dutch midfielder ahead of the winter transfer window.

According to SPORT, both Premier League clubs have reconsidered their plans amid concerns over De Jong’s recent injury problems and doubts about his ability to maintain consistent fitness.

The situation leaves the 29-year-old with fewer potential options if he eventually considers leaving Camp Nou.

For now, however, his priority is to complete his recovery, but the competition for places under Hansi Flick could make his return to regular first-team football increasingly difficult.

Man United and Chelsea reconsider Frenkie de Jong transfer

Manchester United and Chelsea had reportedly shown interest in De Jong, but neither club currently considers his signing a priority for the upcoming winter market.

This is because his injury history has become a significant concern, with both sides assessing whether he can provide the physical consistency required for a demanding Premier League campaign.

As such, the change in their stance could complicate Barcelona’s position if the midfielder eventually becomes available.

Man United and Chelsea have cooled their interest in Frenkie de Jong. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

With his contract running until 2029, the Catalans are not facing an immediate contractual deadline, but interest from potential buyers could influence their longer-term plans.

For De Jong, regaining fitness and establishing himself under Flick will be crucial before any decision about his future becomes clearer.

Hansi Flick faces a midfield selection dilemma

De Jong’s path back into Barcelona’s starting XI is complicated by the depth of options available to Flick.

Pedri, Rodri, Gavi, Marc Bernal, Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo are among the players competing for midfield roles, leaving the Dutchman facing greater pressure to secure regular minutes.

The situation represents a shift for a player who has previously been an important part of Barcelona’s midfield.

Even after recovering, he may have to fight for his place rather than automatically return to the starting lineup.

Frenkie de Jong is yet to feature under Hansi Flick this season. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

On that note, we have reported that Flick has been exploring an alternative role for De Jong, with the midfielder being tested at centre-back during recent training sessions.

Barcelona explore Frenkie de Jong’s defensive option

De Jong has experience playing in deeper defensive positions earlier in his career, while his composure in possession and ability to progress the ball could make him a useful option at centre-back.

The experiment could help Barcelona manage their crowded midfield while offering another solution in defence, an area that has also faced setbacks this season with the injury to Andreas Christensen.

However, it remains unclear whether Flick views the position as a temporary measure or a longer-term possibility.

Any change would depend on the team’s needs and De Jong’s ability to adapt while returning to full fitness.

With his Barcelona contract extending until 2029, De Jong still has time to fight for his place, although Manchester United and Chelsea cooling their interest, combined with increased competition at Camp Nou, leaves his future less predictable than before.