Barcelona sporting director Deco has confirmed the club plan to keep hold of midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
A report recently claimed that De Jong could consider his future at the club at the end of this season because of his ongoing issues with those in charge, which have been exacerbated by his refusal to undergo surgery on the foot injury which has kept him sidelined since April
Manchester United, the Dutchman's long-time admirer, has once again been mentioned, but Deco said Barcelona is not trying to make a profit off of him.
"I don't understand all the talk about Frenkie," Deco replied. "We are thrilled with him, and he has a deal with Barca. We are excited to have him return because we need Frenkie.
"The player will make the correct decision at the appropriate moment, but we want him to stay. Right now, that is unimportant. We need and cherish Frenkie, thus it's important that he plays with us once more."
Victor Font, a former candidate for president of Barcelona, recently stated that he had a conversation with De Jong and that the midfield player is reluctant to have surgery on his foot since the team cannot ensure the procedure will be successful.
The Dutch international is anticipated to wait until he feels completely fit before making a comeback, but reports suggest Barcelona has informed De Jong that if he continues to refuse surgery, he must declare himself fit quickly.
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