After news broke that Barcelona may be open to selling their star midfielder this summer if the price was right, Manchester United may be about to focus exclusively on signing Frenkie de Jong.
Sport in Spain reports that they may release De Jong if they receive a particularly good offer, as they seek to balance their accounts in order to adhere to financial fair play regulations. Last summer, United made a £71 million bid to acquire De Jong, but Barcelona resisted the move.
De Jong had rejected previous advances from the Red Devils because he was so eager to remain at the Nou Camp. However, Erik ten Hag hasn’t given up and continues to have a genuine interest in his countryman.
Ten Hag’s decision to inquire about the player’s availability is probably driven by the most recent developments in De Jong’s condition. It is believed that he considers De Jong to be a “dream signing” and accords him the utmost admiration.
The 26-year-old, though, is adamant about sticking at Barca, so Ten Hag will have to use a lot of persuasion if he wants to hire him. “That has been clear to me, also last summer when things were restless for a while,” he said to Voetbal International.
“I have always known that Barcelona is where I want to live. Because of this, last summer wasn’t as difficult for me.
Additionally, I had just extended my contract [in 2020], so I always felt in charge and free to make my own decisions. Because of this, I decided not to worry about it. I’m happy where I am and anticipate continuing to play for Barcelona in the upcoming season.
De Jong would undoubtedly be a welcome addition to United’s central midfield, which is looking to be completely overhauled this summer. Mason Mount is still very much in the club’s sights after multiple rejections from Chelsea.
Their most recent offer reportedly cost £50 million plus $5 million in add-ons. Chelsea is reportedly waiting for United’s response after making a counter-offer of £58 million with an additional £7 million in add-ons.
