De Jong, a midfielder for Barcelona, has revealed that he has always wanted to remain with the Blaugrana despite Manchester United’s long-standing interest in acquiring him.
Man United swiftly identified De Jong as their top target to bolster their midfield options, according to the Manchester Evening News (MEN) in May.
The Netherlands international was eager to rejoin with Man United manager Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford because they had previously worked together at Ajax.
At the end of June, Man United even reached an agreement with Barcelona to buy the 25-year-old, agreeing on an initial €65 million transfer fee.
However, due to Jong’s outstanding €17million in deferred wages, the Reds Devils were unable to move further with their attempt to recruit him.
In the end, Man United acquired Casemiro from Real Madrid.
Jong discussed his decision to stay at Barcelona with reporters during a press conference held before the Netherlands’ match against Poland on Thursday night.
He said, “I always wanted to stay at Barcelona this summer, and this is why I always remained calm in the summer. I can’t give too many details away.
“But look, the club has its own ideas and I have my own ideas, too, and sometimes these clash with each other. But at the end of the day, things went okay.”
The Netherlands International, Jong is determined to remain at Barcelona, but so far this season, he has had trouble securing a regular spot in manager Xavi’s plans.
“When I play less, I do notice it,” Jong added. “Not really in terms of the technical aspect because you still know how to play football, but more so in the physical aspect.”
