Barcelona boss Xavi has said that Frenkie de Jong could become 'a legend' at Camp Nou if he remains at the club on a long-term basis.
The Netherlands international's future is currently the subject of much speculation, with Manchester United said to be determined to sign him during this summer's transfer window.
Incoming Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag managed the midfielder at Ajax and is thought to be desperate to work with him once again at Old Trafford, as the English giants prepare to overhaul their midfield.
A recent report claimed that Barcelona would be prepared to sell the Dutchman if they received an offer in the region of £51m.
However, Man United's lack of Champions League football next term could ultimately cost them the chance to bring the 25-year-old to the Premier League.
De Jong has been a vital player for Barcelona this season, making 45 appearances in all competitions, contributing four goals and five assists in the process.
However, it has been suggested that the Catalan giants are open to selling him due to their financial issues, with only six players at the club deemed to be untouchable.
Aside from Ansu Fati, Pedri, Gavi, Ferran Torres, Ronald Araujo and Eric Garcia, all of the other first-team players at the club are allegedly available for transfer for the right price.
Xavi was asked about De Jong's future on Saturday, as he spoke ahead of Sunday's La Liga clash with Getafe.
The Spaniard refused to rule out a summer exit for the Dutchman but said that he was determined to keep hold of a player capable of being "one of the club legends".
"He's an important player for me, and he started every game except for a few due to rotations. But it depends on the economic situation. For me, Frenkie could be one of the club legends," Xavi told reporters.
De Jong, who is suspended for Sunday's fixture with Getafe, moved to Barcelona from Ajax in July 2019 off the back of scoring five times and registering 13 assists in 89 appearances for the Amsterdam club.
Since arriving at Camp Nou, he was scored 13 goals and registered 17 assists in 138 appearances for the Catalan giants, and he still has more than four years left to run on his contract.
The length of time left on the Dutchman's deal places them in a strong position when it comes to any potential transfer discussions, but it has been claimed that offers in excess of €50m (£43m) would bring the La Liga outfit to the negotiating table.
Barcelona still have substantial debts, but Xavi is allegedly keen for his club to bring eight new players to Camp Nou this summer in the hope of competing for the major trophies next season.
"I'm an optimist. I think the team has to be competitive. We didn't manage to compete at a high level this season, but next season we have to fight for trophies," Xavi added on Saturday.
Barcelona will be looking to secure second spot in the La Liga table this weekend ahead of their final league match of the campaign at home to Villarreal on May 22. body check tags ::
