City to 'steal' De Jong from under Barca's nose

The midfielder has been on Barca's agenda for some time, but he has been subject to interest from all over Europe. And, now, it appears that the English side are winning the race.

According to the 'Mirror', Pep Guardiola will sign the 21-year-old for €67 million. City's manager, according to 'AS', sees De Jong as the perfect replacement for Fernandinho, 34.

The player is still contracted at Ajax until 2022, but in Amsterdam they are expectant of the imminent departure of both De Jong and De Ligt, another player who interests the 'Culés'.

Recently, the midfielder's agent was questioned about City's interest in the player. "I can neither confirm nor deny this. You should ask Marc Overmars. I send all the clubs to contact him," said Ali Dursun, dodging the question.

This movement would spoil one of Barca's plans for summer. While the operation for De Ligt seems more urgent and necessary, De Jong was profiled as an ideal addition to an ageing midfield.

The Dutchman has played 19 competitive matches this season, both in the Eredivisie and in the Champions League. In addition, despite his youth he has already become a regular in Ronald Koeman's Netherlands side.