Erik ten Hag wants Manchester United to complete a deal to sign Frenkie de Jong before the end of the week.
Reports tonight suggest Manchester United and Barcelona edged closer to an agreement over a fee for the 25-year-old midfielder over the weekend.
The Netherlands international has spent three seasons at Barcelona but looks set to swap Camp Nou for Old Trafford. It’s an exciting acquisition but the squad still needs to be significantly strengthened if we are to compete with the likes of Man City.
According to The Times, United and Barca expect the deal to be completed before Thursday, conveniently at the end of the accounting period for Spanish clubs.
Ian Whittell reports: “Barcelona wanted €80 million (£73 million) for the 25-year-old but are understood to be prepared to accept a fee of £69million. United, who had a bid of £56 million rejected last week, are prepared to raise their offer.”
Fans have criticised the fact Erik ten Hag will take training for the first time on Monday, although only 15 senior players are expected to be in attendance, with United yet to make any signings in the transfer window.
Other players have been given extended breaks if they played international football during the break.
