Bayern Munich target Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong as Declan Rice pursuit fizzles out

Rob Fleming
24 June 2023

Frenkie de Jong of Barcelona 28 May 2023

Bayern Munich are reportedly turning their attention to Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong after ending their pursuit of West Ham captain Declan Rice.

Bayern Munich's pursuit of West Ham captain Declan Rice has hit a dead end, prompting the German champions to reportedly turn their attention to Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

Coach Thomas Tuchel is keen on swiftly completing his summer transfers and has already secured Konrad Laimer and Raphaël Guerreiro. However, despite acquiring Laimer on a free transfer, Tuchel desires further quality in the midfield, with De Jong emerging as the preferred choice, according to Footmercato.

The 26-year-old Dutch international has faced challenges during his tenure in Spain since joining from Ajax in 2019. While his performances have been consistent, the club's financial woes have put him in a precarious position.

Last summer, there were rumours of a potential move to Manchester United under his former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag, but De Jong's unwavering determination to succeed at Barcelona saw him remain steadfast.

Despite facing pressure to depart the club in the previous year, it seems highly improbable for De Jong to make a move to Bayern now. The talented midfielder had an exceptional season under the guidance of coach Xavi Hernandez, playing a pivotal role in their victorious La Liga campaign alongside the experienced Sergio Busquets, as well as the rising stars Pedri and Gavi.

With Busquets departing for Inter Miami, Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan is seen as a potential partner for De Jong in the forthcoming season.

However, Bayern are ready to challenge Barcelona's determination and pursue an extraordinary agreement. In the event of an unsuccessful attempt, the club have reportedly shown interest in Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City, as per Bild.

Phillips, who struggled for playing time last season following his £42 million move, was part of City's Treble winning squad. Bayern believe they can entice him away from the reigning European champions.