Amid the rumors linking Frenkie de Jong to Manchester United, Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has claimed that the midfielder remains a vital player on the team, although there is a financial aspect to consider on the Dutchman’s future.

Speculation surrounding de Jong’s future at Barca ramped up earlier this week, as it was reported that there is a “95 percent” chance that the midfielder will complete a move to Manchester United in the summer transfer window. A blockbuster agreement between Barca and Manchester United would then see the Catalan side pocket €70 million to €80 million in exchange for the Dutch international.

Xavi took some time to speak on de Jong's status at Barca during a pre-match press conference ahead of the La Liga away fixture against Getafe, where he touched on the situation with the Dutch talent’s club future.

“For me [De Jong] is a very important player,” Xavi said on Saturday ahead of the team's final away league match of the season. “He's almost always been a starter, except when I've rotated [the team]. He is a fundamental player, but then there is the financial situation of the club.

“Not just with Frenkie, I mean in general. He's a player I like a lot, but we'll see how the situation is.”

Xavi further added that he will indeed play a crucial role in the “decision making” within the roster.

“The circumstances of the club dictate [what we do],” Xavi said. “I play an important part in decision making. From there, we depend on the financial situation. In a few days we have to know where we are, to be able to plan for next season.”

Financial complications within the club have pushed it to shift its approach during transfer windows. For one, club president Joan Laporta opted to retool the roster with free transfer signings last summer. In the big picture, it remains to be seen on whether club officials may be forced to part ways with de Jong in the coming months.

Barcelona has two matches remaining in its league schedule this season, which include its home season finale against Villarreal on May 22.