Manchester United are inching ever closer to securing their prime target this summer, with Frenkie de Jong being the subject of a protracted saga in Erik ten Hag’s maiden transfer window at Old Trafford.
The 25-year-old was early identified as Ten Hag’s number one priority and after several weeks of negotiations with Barcelona, it looks like a move could finally be completed.
Earlier this week, journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that an agreement between the two clubs was ‘really, really close’.
Now, there is another positive update on the situation. According to The Guardian, De Jong is now open to the idea of joining United after an agreement was struck with Barcelona. Prior to this development, the former Ajax star was believed to be unsure about joining the club.
Read more: Man Utd to resist offers for midfielder after Ten Hag assessment
As per the report, an initial fee of €65m has been agreed in principle, with add-ons taking the deal up to €85m. And in another sign that United’s deal to sign De Jong is advancing, it’s claimed that talks are now centred over the player’s personal terms.
Furthermore, there is also an update on the club’s pursuit of Christian Eriksen, who is a free agent after spending the last six months at Brentford.
The Danish international is yet to make a decision on his future but it’s hoped that he will join despite initially preferring to stay in London.
SN’s verdict…
United will be hoping that this saga is finally reaching its final chapter and with pre-season already underway, Ten Hag will feel the same.
United leave for their tour of Asia in the first week of July and the new Old Trafford boss will be desperate to have his prime target at his disposal as he prepares to drill his new players.
De Jong is still on vacation but is expected to return before United jet off to Thailand on July 8.
