Man Utd remain confident over Frenkie de Jong deal after Chelsea development

Manchester United’s pursuit of Frenkie de Jong has dominated headlines all summer and for many supporters, it has become tiresome.

The saga has dragged on for nearly three months and with just four days remaining before United’s Premier League curtain-raiser against Brighton, there is still no clarity on whether a deal is advancing or not.

In a recent update, United were dealt a heavy blow in their bid to sign De Jong as it emerged that Chelsea have entered the race to sign him. The London club are reportedly in direct talks with Barcelona over a transfer fee.

Now, it’s being reported United remain confident over striking a deal to sign the 25-year-old despite a stand-off between the midfielder and Barcelona over deferred wages.

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That’s according to ESPN, who add that United are also looking to add a forward, right-back and backup goalkeeper before the transfer window shuts in less than a month.

As per the report, departures are also expected. Alex Telles is expected to join Sevilla whilst Eric Bailly, who is seemingly the fifth-choice centre-back as things stand, is increasingly likely to leave the club.

SN’s verdict…
United’s handling of the De Jong saga is getting quite tedious and supporters are growing increasingly frustrated by the lack of progress made.

The season kicks off in just four days and United’s midfield misery remains, with only Christian Eriksen brought in to bolster that area of the pitch. The Danish international offers expertise in attacking areas but United are desperate for a deep-lying player.

De Jong is Erik ten Hag’s prime target this summer and the manager can’t be knocked for wanting to seal his first choice but at some point, alternatives have to be considered.

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