Liverpool are reportedly looking to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong next year.
The Netherlands international was strongly linked with a move to Manchester United over the summer, but the transfer window closed with the midfielder still at Camp Nou.
De Jong has made 10 appearances for the Catalan giants during the 2022-23 campaign, including seven outings in Spain's top flight, but he is not a guaranteed starter for the club.
Xavi's preferred midfield this term has been Sergio Busquets, Gavi and Pedri, and the trio are again expected to line up for Sunday's El Clasico with Real Madrid at Bernabeu.
The 25-year-old is believed to be frustrated with his current situation, and Barcelona are thought to still be keen to sell him to ease their financial problems.
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Failure to qualify for the knockout round of the Champions League, which looks to be almost certain for Barcelona, would cause more financial issues for the club.
According to Fichajes, Liverpool are keen to bring De Jong to Anfield, with the Reds determined to boost their midfield options for the 2023-24 campaign.
The report claims that the club's head coach Jurgen Klopp views De Jong as the ideal player to bring fresh ideas to an area that has been exposed this season.
Liverpool recorded a 7-1 victory over Rangers in the Champions League on Wednesday night, but they have found it difficult in the Premier League this term, losing 3-2 at Arsenal last weekend.
A total of 10 points from eight matches has left Klopp's side down in 11th position in the table, already 14 points behind Arsenal, albeit with the Gunners having played a game more.
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A recent report claimed that Man United remain interested in De Jong despite being frustrated in their pursuit of the Dutchman during the summer transfer window.
However, the Red Devils could allegedly decide to fully concentrate on Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham, who is a player that Liverpool are also believed to be looking to sign next year.
De Jong joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2019, and he has represented the Catalan outfit on 150 occasions in all competitions, contributing 14 goals and 18 assists in the process.
The midfielder was a vital player for Xavi's side during the 2021-22 campaign, making 47 appearances in all competitions, contributing four goals and five assists in the process.
Chelsea were also credited with an interest in the former Ajax youngster over the summer, while Bayern Munich are believed to have considered moving for him during the recent transfer window.
Matt Law
