Chelsea's Xabi Alonso eyes Frenkie de Jong despite Barcelona contract

Frenkie de Jong, the 29‑year‑old Netherlands midfielder, is under contract with Barcelona until 2029, but he must decide in January whether to join Chelsea, where manager Xabi Alonso is keen to have him at Stamford Bridge, despite the Dutchman currently nursing a knee injury.

Barcelona contract and achievements

De Jong has been at Barcelona since the summer of 2019 and is tied to the Catalan giants until 2029. The 29‑year‑old Netherlands international has become a key midfielder, helping the club to three LaLiga titles and two Copa del Rey trophies. He plays his home games at the Spotify Camp Nou.

His recovery from a knee injury means he will return after the break, but he will find it hard to replace Rodri in Hansi Flick’s starting lineup. Rodri arrived from Man City in the summer transfer window and has cemented himself as a pivotal figure in midfield.

Barcelona plans Frenkie de Jong's return in the first week of October

Chelsea interest and statements

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has publicly expressed admiration for the Dutch midfielder and would welcome him at Stamford Bridge. Spanish media report that Alonso is eager to work with De Jong in the Premier League, but the player has no intention of leaving Barcelona mid‑season. The Dutch midfielder’s form will be crucial for both club and country.

“The first thing Frenkie De Jong needs to do is get fit because now he has competition from Rodri at Barcelona. If his future lies away from Barcelona it will be because he can’t play a game, and then he should look for another club where he will play, but I hope he can still do a job for Barcelona. Maybe he can play alongside Rodri in the same midfield. It all depends on what the team needs but Frenkie is a great player, a fantastic player, but the most important thing is that he needs to play. He needs to play for the national team but it’s important for himself too.” – Ruud Gullit

Former Chelsea midfielder Ruud Gullit said he hopes De Jong remains at Barcelona.

Frenkie de Jong nears return to Barcelona's training ground

“EXCLUSIVE: Despite the ongoing rumors, the reality is clear‑cut: Hansi Flick fully backs Frenkie de Jong. As we already revealed, the German coach sees him as a key piece and already has a specific plan designed for his return. His recovery has gone smoothly, and he’ll be back after the break; in fact, he’s already started touching the ball again with impeccable sensations. The arrival of Rodri or the Pedri‑Rodri pairing poses no obstacle for him in the eyes of the staff.” – Juan Jesus

While several Premier League clubs monitor his progress, the stance of both Barcelona and the player remains firm: Flick wants him to stay, and De Jong is focused on regaining fitness and contributing to the Dutch national team.