Transfer Talk: De Jong plotting January exit as Barca frustrations grow

Frenkie de Jong is growing frustrated with his lack of game time at Barcelona this season.

The Dutchman, 25, has only played 90 minutes twice in LaLiga so far this term and the is now said to be considering his future at the club.

De Jong — a 44-cap international — was part of a transfer saga in the summer with former Ajax head coach Erik ten Hag trying to bring his former charge to Manchester United.

A move never materialised due to a difference in personal terms but the United boss has not ruled out a future deal being struck.

Catalonia has not been a happy home for the midfield maestro with Xavi often opting for the likes of Sergio Busquets or Gavi in important games.

And with El Clasico taking place on Sunday, De Jong's future could be plunged into further doubt if he were to warm the bench again.

Xavi's men are on the brink of Champions League elimination and an early exit would heighten their financial problems.

A move to offload their No21 would become more favourable should Barca need to raise funds quickly and with United lurking once more, we could see movement in January.

In other news

Real Madrid have been monitoring Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes but the Magpies are set to block any attempts at a transfer, report The Daily Star.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, AC Milan have offered Rafael Leao a new contract to fend off interest from Chelsea.

The Blues, meanwhile, are prepared to pay upwards of £80million for Borussia Dortmund wonderkid Jude Bellingham, say Bild.