Frenkie de Jong’s knee injury could have serious consequences for Barcelona’s transfer plans. According to Marca, if the Dutchman does not recover as expected, the club will pursue Rodri from Manchester City. The City midfielder prefers Barcelona, according to several international media outlets. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 1st in La Liga, 79 pts, 26W-1D-4L from 31 games, recent form WWWWW.
What happened to Frenkie de Jong?
De Jong is out with a tear in the lateral ligament of his left knee. He suffered the injury during the World Cup after a collision with Quinten Timber in a Netherlands training session. He opted for conservative treatment, against the club’s advice, and could be ready in two months. However, there are doubts about whether the treatment is yielding results.
Why does it matter for Barcelona?
If De Jong needs surgery, his recovery would take between two and three months. This would change Barcelona’s plans, as the club had not intended to sign a new midfielder. Additionally, the club is concerned about De Jong’s long-term physical condition, as he has missed 56 games in the last three seasons due to injuries.
What’s next for Barcelona?
Deco, the sporting director, has already requested information about Rodri and other midfielders. Although Barcelona initially stayed away, it is now known that Rodri prefers Barcelona. Manchester City is asking for around eighty million euros, but could accept between sixty and seventy million. Rodri only has one year left on his contract in Manchester.
