Arsenal are reportedly contemplating whether to join the race to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
The 27-year-old endured a frustrating 2024 after a persistent ankle injury kept him sidelined for the middle part of the calendar year.
However, since the start of October, De Jong has played a regular part under Hansi Flick, ensuring that the Catalan giants remain on course for what would be an unforeseen quadruple.
A total of nine starts and 16 substitute outings have been made in all competitions, the Netherlands international having made several successive starts until his appearance from the bench against Las Palmas on Saturday night.
Nevertheless, his contract situation remains up in the air, something that TBR Football alleges could be exploited by Premier League sides.
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Fresh interest in De Jong signature?
The report alleges that Arsenal have started to monitor the situation involving De Jong, who has less than 18 months remaining on his contract.
Given his involvement under Flick, it appears that De Jong is now viewed as an integral part of the squad, yet Barcelona cannot afford to lose a player of his profile on a free transfer in 2026.
Although negotiations are realistically a priority for all concerned, a failure from De Jong to pen a new deal will lead to offers being considered.
A previous report suggested that Barcelona could be open to cashing in on De Jong for a fee in the region of £25m with Liverpool allegedly an admirer, one that would still provide their situation with the relevant financial regulations a substantial boost.
While De Jong may show preference for a stay at Camp Nou ahead of a return to the renovated stadium, he has already compromised on several contract re-negotiations to enable Barcelona to pass rulings regarding their outgoings.
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Do Arsenal need De Jong?
Mikel Arteta already has Thomas Partey, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino and Jorginho as his senior five central midfielders.
That said, with Partey and Jorginho both out of contract in the summer, it is clear that reinforcements will be required.
A deal for Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi is said to be in the offing, but it is questionable whether Arsenal would spend a further £25m on a second central midfielder when they also need to bring in a new number nine.
Darren Plant
