As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United is said to have begun negotiations with Barcelona about signing Frenkie de Jong.
Following the appointment of Erik ten Hag as manager, the Dutchman has emerged as a priority transfer target for the Red Devils. The duo had previously worked together at Ajax, where they notably reached the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 2018/19.
His performances for the Eredivisie giants won him a lucrative transfer to the Nou Camp, where he has made 139 appearances for Barcelona, scoring 13 goals and contributing 17 assists.
Xavi has stated that he wants to keep De Jong at Barcelona as he continues to rebuild the club, but the truth is that the 25-year-old remains one of the club’s more saleable assets.
Manchester United have opened direct talks with Barça for Frenkie de Jong. Price tag around €85m, waiting for opening bid. 🚨 #MUFC
De Jong is still not convinced to leave Barça and he wants UCL football – Man Utd will try to push again as Barça need to solve financial issues. pic.twitter.com/jT18D37sPK
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 1, 2022
De Jong has stated his desire to remain at Barcelona, and he is also said to be interested in playing Champions League football, which Manchester United is unable to provide following their disastrous season in which they finished sixth.
However, the fact that United has launched official discussions with the Catalan club in the hopes of striking a deal appears to have not deterred them from continuing their interest. And so, United has now opened official talks with the Catalan club in the hopes of striking a deal.
Barcelona is thought to value the midfielder at €85 million, a figure that would take up the majority of United’s transfer budget, which must be stretched to bolster a number of positions.
Barcelona is believed to be in need of sales this summer to balance the financial books, but it’s unclear whether United would be willing to spend so much on a single player considering their own financial constraints.
United is rumored to be interested in adding a defender or two, a striker, and a defensive midfielder, having already confirmed the departures of Nemanja Matic, Edinson Cavani, Paul Pogba, and Jesse Lingard.
