Arsenal are preparing to step up their interest in Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his midfield options.
The Dutch international is entering the final stretch of his deal at Camp Nou, and that has sparked plenty of whispers about a possible switch to the Premier League.
De Jong has long been admired by Arteta, who sees him as the missing piece in a midfield puzzle that already features Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and Martín Zubimendi.
The 28-year-old is viewed as a player who can control games, break opposition lines, and provide the calm that every top team needs.
For Arsenal, the chance to land such a player without a massive transfer fee is simply too tempting to ignore.
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Are Barcelona open to selling Frenkie de Jong?
Reports in Spain (via Fichajes) suggest Barcelona want to keep De Jong, but the renewal talks are not going smoothly.
His contract runs until 2026, but the club is pushing for a pay cut to ease their financial troubles. That request has apparently made negotiations difficult, with the midfielder weighing up his long-term future.
If a new deal cannot be agreed, Arsenal would be in a strong position to make their move. From January, De Jong could speak directly with other clubs about a free transfer in the summer of 2026, and Arsenal are reportedly keeping close tabs.
Barcelona know losing him for nothing would be a major blow, which could force them to consider offers next summer. For the Gunners, this could be their moment to strike.
De Jong played more than 40 matches last season, proving his consistency and quality. If Arsenal do get him, it would be a signing that might turn Arteta’s side from contenders to serious challengers in both the Premier League and Champions League.
It would also add another chapter in the long-running tale of Barca stars trying their luck in England — a story fans never get tired of.
Arsenal fans may joke they’ve gone “De Jong-hunting,” but make no mistake, this chase could define their next summer window.
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