Manchester United have been linked with Frenkie de Jong for months now and it is not hard to understand why they might be interested in the Dutch international star, who currently plays for Barcelona. Midfield has been viewed as a weakness for the Red Devils for a while now and on top of that, they have seen Paul Pogba, Juan Mata and Nemanja Matic leave the club this summer. Thus, they certainly need reinforcements in the middle of the park.
On the other hand, a change of scenery might be good for De Jong as well. During his time at Ajax, he was expected to go on to become one of the best midfielders in the world. But his development has stalled at Barcelona to a large extent and with the likes of Pedri and Gavi emerging, he seems a bit lost in the shuffle as well.
With Erik ten Hag now the manager of Manchester United, on paper, a move to Old Trafford makes a lot of sense for De Jong. After all, it was under his management at Ajax that he played his best football.
Surprisingly though, De Jong does not appear to be too keen to leave Barcelona in order to join Manchester United.
Manchester United have one problem in deal to sign De Jong from Barcelona
As tweeted out by Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United have reached full agreement with Barcelona for De Jong over a package worth €85 million. The guaranteed transfer fee would be around €75 million plus add-ons. But personal terms are a problem as the player’s priority is to remain at Camp Nou.
This is a tricky position for Manchester United to say the least and they must make a decision on De Jong soon.
While the Red Devils have not given up, if De Jong is intent on staying at Barcelona, it might be best for Manchester United to turn their attention elsewhere. Otherwise, they might be left scrambling for midfielders at the end of the summer transfer window, in case they are not ultimately able to sign the Dutchman.