Former Real Madrid star urges Bayern Munich to sign Barcelona midfielder: ‘Would make them a better team’ | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid and Netherlands midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has suggested Bayern Munich should consider signing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong as they plan for the future of their midfield.

Speaking on the Bild podcast ‘Phrasenmäher’ (h/t SPORT), Van der Vaart questioned how long Joshua Kimmich will remain Bayern’s central midfield reference point and argued that the German champions need to prepare for a potential change.

His solution was particularly interesting given De Jong’s current situation at Barcelona, with the Dutchman yet to make his first appearance of the 2026/27 season as he continues his recovery from a knee problem.

Van der Vaart identifies De Jong as solution for Bayern

Van der Vaart believes Bayern cannot afford to wait until the end of Kimmich’s spell at the club before considering alternatives.

“With all due respect, I think Joshua Kimmich’s time could come to an end at some point. And you have to be prepared,” he said.

The former Netherlands international then proposed De Jong as a potential answer to Bayern’s midfield needs.

Van der Vaart has urged Bayern Munich to sign Frenkie de Jong. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“The arrival of Frenkie would make Bayern an even better team. He could even play at this stage alongside Kimmich.”

De Jong’s Barcelona situation remains under scrutiny

Despite these comments, De Jong’s immediate priority is getting back onto the pitch for Barcelona.

The midfielder has not yet made his debut this season as he continues his recovery from problems with his right knee. 

His absence has once again fuelled speculation about his future, despite the fact that he has renewed his commitment to Barcelona.

The Dutchman’s name has been linked with potential moves to both the Bundesliga and Premier League for several transfer windows, with Bayern among the clubs that could theoretically enter the conversation.

Frenkie de Jong is yet to play this season. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

There is currently no indication that Barcelona are actively seeking to sell De Jong, but his prolonged injury absence has ensured that questions about his position within Flick’s squad continue to surface.

De Jong closing in on Barcelona return

The more immediate development is positive for Barcelona.

If his recovery continues according to plan, De Jong is expected to return to work with the rest of Flick’s squad after the current international break. 

His rehabilitation has progressed well in recent weeks, particularly regarding the problems with his right knee.

The midfielder is now expected to increase his physical workload and gradually return to ball work as he approaches full fitness.