Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has been linked with a move to both Manchester United and Chelsea this summer, although fresh reports suggest he would prefer a switch to Stamford Bridge.
This news will certainly come as a blow to Manchester United.
Not only has Erik ten Hag made the Netherlands international his primary target in the transfer window, but United have spent over 10-weeks chasing his signature. It would see egg on many faces at Old Trafford if he was to turn us down for Chelsea.
According to The National, Barcelona manager Xavi is expected to make Spain trio Sergio Busquets, Pedri and Gavi his first-choice midfield. That’s not good news for De Jong or new signing Franck Kessie.
However, the report also claims De Jong has told some of his friends that he’d rather join Chelsea over United.
De Jong would be an excellent addition for both Premier League clubs, but have United really wasted all that time on one player?
SN’s verdict
As editor of Stretty News, I’ve been fed up with hearing stories about De Jong for weeks. It has been the most tiresome transfer saga of the year, so of course it would have to involve United.
Barcelona have acted appallingly in their attempts to force the player out, yet his desire is to remain at Camp Nou.
It’s just a shame that Chelsea appear to be winning the race for De Jong’s signature because he’d make a huge different in our midfield this season and beyond.
Everyday he tells friends he wanted this and that, Try and post something more reasonable