Marc-Andre ter Stegen wants De Jong to stay beyond his season.
The Dutch midfielder was expected to leave last summer and Manchester United tried to sign him till the very last minute.
De Jong started the season out of Xavi’s starting XI but has now won his place back with some impressive performances.
He has played a significant role in Barcelona’s resurgence under Xavi this season.
Barcelona goalkeeper Ter Stegen explains how De Jong is the perfect role model for Pedri and Gavi.
“He brings a lot to the team,” Ter Stegen said of De Jong, who is in his fourth season at Barca.
“I have a super high opinion of him, but I also expect a lot from him because he has so much talent. He sees and feels football in a different way. He is someone that players like Gavi and Pedri, for example, can look up to.
“I was hoping he would stay because, in the end, this is the type of player I want in my team. Of course, there were many rumours and discussions and whatever, but I am just happy he is here. I don’t want him to leave.
“I think one day I will put him something here [gestures tying him down] to just keep him here always, forever, and I hope he will be here for [a] long [time].”
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