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.

Long-term admirers Manchester United have once again been linked, but Deco insisted Barcelona are not looking to cash in on the Dutchman.

“I don’t understand all the talk about Frenkie,” Deco said. “He has a contract with Barca and we are very happy with him. He is a player we are anxious to see come back because we need Frenkie.

“We want him to stay, but the player will decide at the right time. It is not a matter for now. What matters is that Frenkie plays with us again, because we need him and we value him very much.”

Former Barcelona presidential candidate Victor Font recently claimed to have spoken with De Jong, alleging the midfielder’s hesitancy to undergo surgery on his foot stems from the club’s inability to guarantee such a procedure would work.

Reports state Barcelona have warned De Jong that he must declare himself fit soon if he continues to reject surgery, although the Dutch international is expected to wait until he feels 100% fit before making his return.

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