Barcelona have secured the signing of one of the top young talents in European football by capturing Frenkie de Jong from Ajax for €75m up front. €11m extra could be paid in bonuses and the star man signs a five-year deal, joining up with his new teammates in summer 2019.
He is receiving huge praise from all over the world and some of the best quotes about him have come from some footballing icons. One of Barcelona’s best Xavi, has been singing his praises for several months now.
“I have not seen him play a lot, but he does like Sergio Busquets in terms of playing style. He would be very good for Barcelona. He’s young, but I think he can make a huge contribution now. He is seen as a beastly talent. He’s really a player to keep an eye on. De Jong's profile is exactly what Barcelona need. A player who is technically very strong, wants to work for the team, but above all has a lot of talent.”
Former Ajax player Arie Haan came out with possibly the best comparison for De Jong:
“I really think he is a revelation. I really enjoyed him against PSV. Now, you might laugh, but he is a better version of Franz Beckenbauer. People must interpret that properly. What I really mean is that he also has speed and passes easily. That’s an enormous weapon.”
Former Barcelona player Ronald de Boer, who also got 67 caps for the Netherlands is one of several Dutchman who have been huge successes at the Nou Camp:
“He brings so much peace and always shows the intention of going forward, which creates space for other players. Frenkie also has an outstanding pass. You can’t learn that, it’s just incredible quality. He was the key to the success.”
Meanwhile, Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu was delighted with the capture, tweeting:
“With the arrival of Frenkie De Jong we add talent, youth and Barça style to our sporting project. We are convinced that he will be a key part of our team for years to come. Welcome, Frenkie!”
De Jong himself has managed to fulfill his dream of playing with Lionel Messi. He said when asked about transfer talk last year:
"If you end up at a superior club, you will play with world class players all over the pitch, but for me, honestly, I would like to play with Messi one day."
