Overview

• Spanish outlet Fichajes, cited by Football365 and Football Talk, reports Arsenal are monitoring de Jong and are viewed as front-runners for a winter move.
• Barcelona are said to be prepared to put de Jong on the market in January to avoid a free exit next summer if renewal talks do not progress.
• Mikel Arteta is reported to see the Netherlands international as a player who could raise Arsenal’s level in title pursuits.
• Arsenal spent more than £260 million in the summer and added midfielders Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard, which could reduce the urgency for another signing.
• De Jong’s reported £315,000-per-week wages and possible interest from Saudi Pro League clubs are cited as major hurdles to any deal.