Frenkie de Jong continues to be linked with a move away from Barcelona, with Manchester United reportedly interested in securing his signature.
However, the Dutch international has previously admitted that he admires United's Premier League rivals Arsenal, claiming he envisaged playing for the north Londoners. Speaking to Voetbal International back in 2019, he said: "I actually thought Arsenal was pretty beautiful in the past.
"In my mind, I have had the following list for a long time: Ajax-Arsenal-Barcelona, call it the Marc Overmars route. But yes, if you can go directly to Barcelona, then you are also right where you want to be. Faster than you ever dared to dream."
READ MORE: Midfielder on his way to Arsenal to compete with Thomas Partey following Instagram message
Now, de Jong has revealed that he would prefer to stay at the Nou Camp, saying: “I can’t say anything about that but I prefer to stay at Barcelona", when asked about any potential interest in his services. “I have already said it before, Barcelona are the club of my dreams since I was little.
"If other clubs call I will take the call, of course. It is something that is always done.” The 25-year-old's admission is a hammer blow to United's transfer plans but in reality, he is not the type of midfielder that Arsenal need.
In fact, the former Ajax star possesses a number of similarities to Thomas Partey, who is utilised as a lone no.6 by Gunners boss Mikel Arteta. Both midfielders are extremely capable one versus one dribblers, boasting the two best success rates of any player that attempted 40 or more take-ons in Europe's top five leagues last season.
They also both possess the ability to progress the ball between the lines consistently, whilst Arsenal's midfield arguably lacks intensity and athleticism, someone that can help them bully the opposition, something that de Jong isn't particularly known for. He is undoubtedly a hugely talented playmaker, but the Gunners are better investing their money elsewhere, with a clinical centre-forward top of technical director Edu's shortlist.
