Manchester United’s pursuit of Frenkie de Jong, the Barcelona midfielder, is dragging on and it doesn’t look like a move is imminent just yet.
The 25-year-old is due back from holiday on Monday and ahead of his return to Barcelona, their club president made some interesting remarks.
Joan Laporta, the Catalan club chief, insisted that De Jong is happy at the Spotify Camp Nou and that they had no intentions of letting him go this summer. He did, however, add that De Jong’s salary was problematic and changes would need to be made in light of their financial state.
Barcelona are over £1bn in debt and their financial demise infamously led to Lionel Messi’s departure last year. Recently, it has been reported that they are relying on De Jong’s sale to finance incomings.
Amid Laporta’s comments, journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on the situation, hinting that Laporta’s wish is unlikely to become reality.
Frenkie de Jong situation 🇳🇱 #FCB
▫️ Man Utd & Barça agreed €65m fixed fee but still discussing on €20m add-ons structure;
▫️ Personal terms never discussed yet;
▫️ Frenkie’s priority has always been to stay at Barça;
▫️ Salary reduction ‘very unlikely’ option on Frenkie side. pic.twitter.com/bXcGIB3II3— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 3, 2022
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As per Romano, De Jong reducing his salary is ‘very unlikely’ despite Barcelona’s wishes, which could work in United’s favour as they continue to negotiate with Barcelona.
Furthermore, after reaching an agreement on the base fee of €65m, discussions are ongoing over the add-ons, with personal terms yet to be discussed.
It is, however, stated that De Jong’s priority remains to stay at Barcelona but it could be out of his hands, with his high wages crippling their ability to strengthen the side.
SN’s verdict…
We’re reaching a point where United fans are growing increasingly frustrated. This saga has dragged on for long enough and with United’s summer tour just five days away, Erik ten Hag will be desperate for a quick resolution.
An extension to this protracted saga could seriously harm the Dutchman’s preparations, with no signings made despite pre-season beginning last week.
Clearly, De Jong is Ten Hag’s prime target and United’s willingness to get the best possible deal is understandable but there is also value in getting a deal done early.
De Jong now almost for 3 months