Barcelona are reportedly close to winning the race for in-demand Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
A host of Europe's top clubs have been linked with a move for De Jong in recent months, with the likes of Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich all understood to be interested in his signature.
However, Barcelona are thought to be leading the race, and Mundo Deportivo reports that the Catalan giants have now met De Jong's wage demands.
Barca are understood to be the 21-year-old's preferred choice, having previously hinted at a desire to play in Spain, and the prospective deal is now reportedly edging closer.
De Jong's agent recently revealed that a decision over his client's future would be made "in the coming weeks", although Ajax are reluctant to sell midway through the season while they are still in Champions League and Eredivisie contention.
The player has made 27 appearances for Ajax across all competitions this season, scoring three goals and creating one more.
Barney Corkhill
