Question marks surrounding his future had been ever present over the years. In 2022, Barcelona agreed to sell to Manchester United for around €75 million (£65.1 million, $87.2 million). De Jong was adamant about staying in Spain, though, and the move eventually fell apart.

With Real Madrid match looming, the Catalan club is reportedly furious with the veteran striker for continuing to play despite feeling discomfort.

Barcelona have reportedly been keeping tabs on an exciting wonderkid as a potential replacement for Marcus Rashford. The English forward's Barcelona adventure is fast turning into one of football's most surprising redemption arcs.