Manchester City Abandoned Frenkie de Jong Transfer After Reviewing His Medical Reports
Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong could face a defining period in his career after reports emerged that Manchester City decided against pursuing a summer transfer following a review of his medical information.
The Dutch international is gradually returning from a medial collateral ligament injury in his right knee, sustained during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Having recently resumed parts of team training, the 29-year-old is moving closer to a competitive comeback, although he still needs medical clearance before returning to Hansi Flick's matchday squad.
His recovery is encouraging news for Barcelona, but De Jong could face a significant challenge when he returns. Competition for midfield places has intensified, making his role in Flick's plans less certain than before.
Manchester City Considered De Jong as a Potential Rodri Replacement
According to the Barça Reservat podcast, cited by SPORT, Manchester City explored the possibility of signing De Jong during the summer transfer window.
The Premier League club were reportedly considering midfield reinforcements amid uncertainty surrounding Rodri's future at the Etihad Stadium. De Jong emerged as a potential option to strengthen their midfield.
Barcelona's sporting department, led by Deco, was reportedly aware of City's interest and would not have automatically blocked a departure if a suitable offer had arrived. The Dutchman was not considered entirely untouchable, according to the report.
Manchester City subsequently requested medical information to assess De Jong's physical condition following his World Cup injury.
After reviewing the reports, however, City decided not to advance the transfer. It remains unclear whether his medical situation was directly responsible for their decision.
The development represents a missed opportunity for Barcelona to potentially generate funds from a high-profile departure, while De Jong remains at the club to compete for his place.
Manchester City Turned to Other Midfield Targets
Instead of pursuing De Jong, Manchester City reportedly focused on alternative midfield options.
The report points to substantial spending on younger profiles, including Enzo Fernandez, Elliot Anderson and Ayyoub Bouaddi.
Those reported investments suggest City were looking to strengthen their midfield with players suited to their longer-term plans rather than continuing with the De Jong option.
For Barcelona, the episode highlights how a player's fitness can influence transfer negotiations, particularly when a prospective buyer wants reassurance about his ability to contribute consistently.
However, without confirmation that De Jong's medical report was the decisive factor, it would be premature to conclude that his knee injury alone ended City's interest.
De Jong Faces a Crucial Season Under Hansi Flick
De Jong's immediate priority is to complete his rehabilitation and return to full fitness. His longer-term challenge will be demonstrating that he can remain a regular contributor in a Barcelona midfield that has become increasingly competitive.
The Dutchman is contracted to the Catalan club until June 30, 2029, giving Barcelona time to assess his contribution before making decisions about his future.
Nevertheless, his minutes this season could prove important. If he returns strongly and establishes himself as a reliable option, he will have a clear opportunity to reinforce his value to Flick's project.
If his playing time becomes limited, speculation about his future could return, particularly given his status as one of the club's senior midfielders and reported high earners.
De Jong has repeatedly expressed his happiness at Barcelona and his desire to remain at the club. There is currently no clear indication that he is actively seeking an exit.
Barcelona Need a Fully Fit De Jong
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Barcelona have reasons to welcome De Jong's recovery.
A fully fit midfielder with his press resistance, ball progression and ability to control possession would give Flick another valuable option during a demanding campaign.
Barcelona will need depth and flexibility to compete across domestic and European competitions, and De Jong can still make a substantial contribution if he returns to his best level.
For now, the focus remains on his rehabilitation rather than transfer speculation. His gradual return to group training is a positive sign, but the club must ensure he is ready before restoring him to competitive action.
Manchester City's decision not to pursue him has closed one potential route away from Barcelona. What happens next will depend largely on De Jong's fitness, performances and ability to reclaim a prominent role in Flick's midfield.
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