Manchester United have opened talks with Barcelona over a possible summer transfer for midfielder Frenkie De Jong.
After already confirming that Paul Pogba, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard will be leaving the club, it goes without saying that manager Erik Ten Hag is going to need to sign at least one new, high-profile central midfielder this summer.
One player who is understandably on Ten Hag’s wishlist is De Jong. Both men know each other well following their time spent together while at Ajax.
However, with De Jong now at Barcelona, forcing a reunion will not be easy for the Red Devils’ recruitment team.
Read more: Martin Svidersky confirms La Liga move ahead of Manchester United exit
Leading transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently reported that the 20-time league winners had opened ‘direct’ talks with the Catalan giants, who, in turn, are wanting at least £72m (€85m) in exchange for their Netherlands international.
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
Reacting to the widespread reports, as well as lifting the lid on the club’s stance, Barcelona vice president Edouard Romeu, who spoke to reporters, as quoted by MEN, said: “We have not budgeted for the sale of players.
“Frankie de Jong? If he leaves, it’s a technical decision, not an economic one. But I repeat, we have planned no departure.”
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