Barcelona to Block Star Midfielder’s January Exit Despite Chelsea and Man Utd Interest

According to BBC Sport on Monday, October 19, 2026, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick is determined to keep Frenkie de Jong at the club and is expected to resist any attempt to sign him during the January transfer window. Despite reported interest from Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool, the Spanish giants are keen to maintain their squad depth for the second half of the season.

De Jong remains an important figure at Barcelona because of his technical ability, composure on the ball and understanding of the game. The Dutch international has the qualities needed to help the team control possession, create attacking opportunities and move the ball through midfield under pressure.

Flick’s reported stance reflects his desire to keep his strongest players available as Barcelona compete across different competitions. Losing an experienced midfielder in January could reduce the manager’s options at a crucial stage of the campaign, particularly when injuries, suspensions and a demanding fixture schedule can affect the squad.

Chelsea are among the Premier League clubs reportedly interested in the midfielder. The London side could view De Jong as a valuable addition because of his passing ability, intelligence and capacity to operate in different midfield roles. His experience at the highest level could also strengthen their options in the middle of the pitch.

Manchester United have also been linked with the Dutchman as they continue to assess potential midfield targets. His ability to retain possession, dictate the tempo and progress the ball could make him an attractive option for the English club.

Liverpool are reportedly monitoring the situation as well, adding further competition should Barcelona become willing to consider offers. However, interest from these clubs does not mean that a transfer agreement has been reached or that Barcelona are prepared to negotiate his departure.

For Flick, keeping De Jong could be more important than accepting an offer during the winter transfer window. The manager needs sufficient depth to maintain the team’s performance throughout the season, and the midfielder’s experience could prove valuable in important matches.

Barcelona’s reported position could therefore complicate the plans of Chelsea and Manchester United, particularly if both clubs decide to make a serious attempt to sign him in January. Any potential deal would depend on Barcelona’s willingness to negotiate and the player’s own position regarding his future.

For now, De Jong’s future remains a subject of transfer speculation. With Flick reportedly determined to keep him, Barcelona appear ready to resist approaches from interested clubs and retain the midfielder beyond the January transfer window.