De Jong has been Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag’s top target all summer and the club have been in talks with Barcelona for several weeks.
The two clubs have already agreed on an initial fee of €65m but Barcelona owe €20m in deferred payments to De Jong and that has been stalling the deal.
Manchester United are trying to find a solution but it has been claimed that they are now set to face competition from Chelsea for his signature.
According to Spanish outlet Relevo, Chelsea have made their presence felt in the saga and are interested in taking De Jong to Stamford Bridge.
They are assessing the possibility of signing the Dutchman and are in contact with Barcelona over a deal.
Chelsea are also prepared to offer Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta, two players that Barcelona want, as part of the negotiations to get De Jong.
Manchester United are in advanced negotiations for De Jong and have laid down considerable groundwork with the club.
But Chelsea are now trying to hijack the move and have Champions League football to offer to the Dutchman.
Erik ten Hag has been in constant touch with De Jong and Manchester United are hopeful that the Dutchman’s pull will be enough to see off interest from other clubs.
