Barcelona sporting director Deco has confirmed their intention to keep both Ronald Araujo and Frenkie de Jong despite rumours linking the pair away.
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Deco wants to keep pairDe Jong linked with Chelsea, Man Utd and PSGAraujo wanted by Bayern MunichWHAT HAPPENED?
Deco has confirmed the club's desire to retain both De Jong and Araujo, who have both been linked away in recent months. The Netherlands midfielder has yet to sign a new contract but has been linked with Manchester United, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, while his team-mate has been linked with Bayern Munich.
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Deco said: “What will happen to Araujo and De Jong? Nothing will happen. They have a contract and we want to keep the best. And they are the best. They are footballers of the present and the future. They are players who have earned the right to be at Barca and they have earned the respect of the fans and the club. We want to continue counting on them.”
Getty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Barcelona face significant financial pressures and there had been some talk that they may well need to raise funds in the summer. However, it appears they are willing to retain two of their first-team stars, and may look elsewhere to beef up their transfer kitty.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR BARCELONA?
Barcelona play Athletic Club next weekend. They will then face Mallorca on the following Friday.