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Barcelona signed promising 21-year-old Netherlands midfielder Frenkie de Jong from Ajax for 75 million euros ($85.5 million) on Wednesday, although he won’t start playing for the Spanish champions until next season. The deal could reach 86 million euros ($98 million) including possible add-ons depending on the youngster’s and the team’s performances during the five-year contract, which starts in July.
The transfer was finalized by Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu in Amsterdam. “It’s an exciting signing for the club,” coach Ernesto Valverde said. “For now and for years to come. He is a player with a great future ahead of him.”
De Jong’s poise on the ball and eye for a pass has drawn comparisons to Dutch legend Johan Cruyff, who flourished with Barcelona as a player and as a coach. Barcelona calls De Jong “one of Europe’s most promising midfield talents.” It says he has “an excellent reading of the game and ability to provide the killer pass.”
The transfer was finalized by Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu in Amsterdam. “It’s an exciting signing for the club,” coach Ernesto Valverde said. “For now and for years to come. He is a player with a great future ahead of him.”
De Jong’s poise on the ball and eye for a pass has drawn comparisons to Dutch legend Johan Cruyff, who flourished with Barcelona as a player and as a coach. Barcelona calls De Jong “one of Europe’s most promising midfield talents.” It says he has “an excellent reading of the game and ability to provide the killer pass.”