Barcelona boss Xavi branded Frenkie de Jong "the present and the future" of the club when asked about the recent speculation surrounding the Netherlands international.
Manchester United are believed to be keen to sign the midfielder during this summer's transfer window, with incoming Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag said to be a huge admirer of his talents.
De Jong is allegedly open to leaving Camp Nou this year, and a recent report claimed that an offer in the region of £58m would be considered by the Catalan giants.
However, Barcelona boss Xavi branded the Dutchman "a very important player" when asked about his future, with the Spaniard determined to keep hold of him amid the transfer speculation.
"He has to be a player that makes the difference and he does. There aren't many players with his quality in the world," Xavi told reporters.
"He's the present and the future [at Barca]. He is a very important player for me. He's capable, strong, he gets into the box. He has had some excellent games, but he has to be consistent."
Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are also believed to be interested in signing the midfielder during this summer's transfer window.
De Jong has been a key player for his Catalan club during the 2021-22 campaign, making 43 appearances in all competitions, contributing four goals and five assists in the process.
Matt Law
