It is understood that Manchester United have considered alternatives for Frenkie de Jong if his transfer falls through.
The 25-year-old midfielder has been a priority target for Erik ten Hag, who wants his former Ajax star to become a key player in his United side, but we now know that Chelsea are in direct talks with Barcelona over signing him.
However, United already have an agreement in place with Barcelona over De Jong’s transfer fee. Now the final decision must come from the player and he is waiting to receive the €17m he’s owed in deferred wages.
No conclusion has been made yet and time is running out in the transfer market.
However, Sky Sports journalist Melissa Reddy provided updates on the alternatives United have looked at this summer.
Ruben Neves was mentioned along with Renato Sanches.
🇵🇹 Rúben Neves
🇵🇹 Renato Sanches@MelissaReddy_ says should Manchester United not get their number one target Frenkie De Jong they would look at alternatives. 👀 pic.twitter.com/97TNnsWcW7— Football Daily (@footballdaily) August 2, 2022
Footage courtesy of Sky Sports News (H/t Football Daily)
Reddy adds that United are still confident about the deal they have in place with Barcelona.
