Manchester United are closing in on their first signing of the summer as Frenkie de Jong edges closer towards becoming Erik ten Hag’s maiden recruit at Old Trafford.
The Dutch midfielder has been Ten Hag’s prime target this summer and talks between United and Barcelona have been protracted, with the clubs haggling over a final fee for several days.
Now, however, there are suggestions that there has finally been a breakthrough in negotiations and that De Jong is becoming increasingly likely to become a Red.
That’s according to Spanish outlet Sport, who add that although the deal is not completed yet, there have been positive talks in ‘the last hours’ and that the ‘operation’ is finally reaching its twilight.
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As per the report, a full agreement between the clubs is now believed to be ‘close’. Manchester United believe the deal could be completed by June 30, with the club already in discussions with De Jong’s representatives over a five-year contract.
The deal is said to cost United €80m, just €5m less than Barcelona originally wanted. De Jong will also need to give the green light before the deal is completed.
SN’s verdict…
After a very frustrating calendar year, this is exactly the type of news a Manchester United supporter needed. On top of the club making no signings thus far, their closest rivals have been strengthening right, left and centre.
Ten Hag will hope to have De Jong through the door as soon as possible as he prepares his side for a challenging but exciting season. Pre-season officially starts this Monday for non-international players.
Players who were involved in international fixtures this month, as De Jong was, will return to the club for pre-season early next month.