Xavi compares Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong to himself

Barcelona boss has made a comparison between Frenkie de Jong's playing style to his own as a player.

The Dutch midfielder has been linked with a move to Manchester United throughout the summer, but De Jong has been reluctant to leave the Catalan giants.

Although United have agreed to sign Casemiro, they are still looking to sign De Jong before the transfer window closes.

The Red Devils previously reached an agreement with Barcelona on a fee for the Netherlands international, but personal terms have not been agreed while the 25-year-old is keen to play Champions League football.

Despite being the centre of transfer speculation, De Jong has begun the season with Barcelona and in his time with the club has been used in a variety of roles.

Xavi was asked by reporters about De Jong's best position after using him as a centre-back in pre-season, and the Barcelona boss compared the Dutchman to himself as a player.

As per Mundo Deportivo, via The Mirror, Xavi said: "I see Frenkie facing the game. I myself, when I was a footballer and I had my back to the game, I didn't feel comfortable.

"When he is facing the game, he is a spectacular footballer and you have to try to turn him around, to divide, who does it very well because he has a lot of power, he's physically strong and he has last passes.

"I've always said that he's a player that I've always liked. I see him more as an inside player although he can adapt to the pivot position. On the wing? I don't see it that much."

De Jong featured as a substitute in Barcelona's goalless draw against Rayo Vallecano on the opening weekend of the La Liga season, and he could be involved on Sunday against Real Sociedad.