According to the leading transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils are considering making Frenkie De Jong their first major signing under the new Ten Hag era.
Although there is still much work to be done before Ten Hag and De Jong can be reunited, the Premier League giant’s pursuit could be aided by the availability of the midfielder’s favourite number.
De Jong had revealed his favourite number to Voetbal International in 2019, as published by the Evening Standard:
“I feel comfortable with that number. I could easily play with another number, you know, it’s not a problem, but it is nice that it also gives people a way of recognizing me.”
“I brought my whole family to my presentation in Barcelona, except my grandfather Hans de Jong, my father’s father. He died on the day of my 21st birthday. Unconsciously it is also a kind of tribute. He was a huge football fan.”
The Dutch midfielder wants the number 21 shirt as it holds a lot of importance in his career.
Following the departure of Edinson Cavani earlier this month, the Red Devils’ number 21 shirt is now available for grabs, which could influence De Jong’s decision to join Ten Hag’s Man United rebuild.
Since joining Barcelona from Ajax in 2019, De Jong has appeared in 139 appearances across all competitions, directly contributing to 30 goals. The midfielder still has four years left on his present contract with Barcelona.
Given his achievements in Europe’s top leagues, it goes without saying that if United can convince the 25-year-old to join them at Old Trafford, they will have signed one of the continent’s best players.
