De Jong, 21, will move to Camp Nou from Ajax Amsterdam in the off-season in a money-spinning five-year deal that will pocket him £16m per season after the two sides struck a £65million transfer.
While the deal represents the largest ever Dutch Football transfer, reports in English media claim City were priced out of the equation, as PSG and the Blaugrana went head to head for his services.
The Netherlands international midfielder had a reportedly demanded a £307,000-a-week wage demand when holding talks with Pep Guardiola's Citizens.
According to the Daily Mirror, this is where the Premier League champions conceded defeat in the race for one of Europe's unique talents.
"If you are the only one who want players, it's easy," Guardiola said.
"Normally when you are involved with Madrid and Barcelona, you are going to lose. You have to be quicker and more efficient."
De Jong admitted he spoke with Guardiola, but a move to Barcelona was too tempting to resist.
"I spoke with Guardiola about a move to Man City," the youngster told Dutch outlet NOS.
"Clubs all try to convince you when they want you. I am happy and proud that they did so much to get me.
"Barcelona have always been a dream club for me. The fact that they were so serious about getting me and that I have a good chance of getting playing time made the decision a bit easier.
"I already watched Barcelona as a kid and then when I was a bit more aware of the game you had the Guardiola era with all their successes.
“That turned me into an even bigger fan. I have always been a big fan of Messi, although I liked the entire team.”
De Jong becomes the Blaugrana's third January signing, after Jason Murillo and Kevin-Prince Boateng.