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Frenkie de Jong returns to Barcelona training amid transfer interest
Frenkie de Jong has returned to training with Barcelona following a knee injury, though he will miss the club’s upcoming UEFA Champions League fixture against Galatasaray in Turkey. While his absence from the Galatasaray match is confirmed, he may be available for the La Liga match against Real Betis depending on his progress.
Reports indicate that Barcelona is testing De Jong in a central defensive role during training. Manager Hansi Flick has acknowledged the player's capability in that position, noting that the shift may help manage the physical demands on his knee by reducing the amount of twisting and turning required in midfield.
Separately, Chelsea is reportedly interested in a mid-season transfer for the Dutch midfielder to bolster their squad. Analysts suggest that a permanent deal would likely require a proposal exceeding £50 million to convince Barcelona to sell a player under contract until 2029.
Entities
Barcelona · Chelsea · Frenkie de Jong · Galatasaray · Hansi Flick
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [DISPUTED] Frenkie de Jong may be available for Barcelona’s match against Real Betis next weekend. nigeriafootball.ng · www.barcablaugranes.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Chelsea is reportedly targeting Frenkie de Jong as a potential mid-season transfer. www.sportsmole.co.uk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Frenkie de Jong has been tested in a central defense role during training. www.barcablaugranes.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Barcelona manager Hansi Flick stated that De Jong is capable of playing in central defense. www.barcablaugranes.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A transfer for De Jong would likely require a proposal exceeding £50 million. www.sportsmole.co.uk
- [DISPUTED] Frenkie de Jong will miss Barcelona’s Champions League match against Galatasaray. nigeriafootball.ng · www.barcablaugranes.com