Xavi addresses Frenkie de Jong future amid Manchester United speculation

Barcelona boss Xavi has said that he is desperate to keep Frenkie de Jong at the club amid suggestions that Manchester United are keen on signing the midfielder.

Incoming Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag has allegedly identified De Jong as a priority target during this summer's transfer window.

The 24-year-old has been a key player for the Catalan giants this season, making 42 appearances in all competitions, contributing four goals and five assists in the process, but he was strongly linked with a move away from Camp Nou in January.

When asked about the future of the Netherlands international, Xavi said that he views him as a "very important" player and has tipped the former Ajax youngster to become "one of the best midfielders in the world" over the next few years.

"I haven't talked with him about his future," Xavi told reporters. "He is playing at a very good level and has to continue here - he can be one of the best midfielders in the world for years to come.

"If it were up to me, I would continue here for many more years. He is very important and can mark an era here. He has to score, assist and he has to be the protagonist."

Bayern Munich have also been credited with an interest in the Dutchman, who still has more than four years left to run on his current agreement with Barcelona.