Manchester United are reportedly ready to go back in for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong after missing out on his signature over the summer transfer window.
De Jong was earmarked as Erik ten Hag’s number one transfer target in his first summer but after several months of negotiating, the deal failed to materialise.
The Dutch midfielder was never sold on the idea of leaving Barcelona but he has found this season troublesome, with manager Xavi Hernandez preferring several players over him. Now, it looks like a number of clubs are ready to offer De Jong a timely lifeline as he looks to resurrect his career.
That’s according to ESPN, who say that United and Chelsea are now ready to lead the race to sign him as soon as in the January transfer window if he decides to leave.
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As per the report, despite United’s interest, it’s Chelsea who have received encouragement that De Jong could consider his Barcelona future.
Liverpool are also said to be interested in De Jong but as things stand, any pursuit depends on the player changing his steadfast stance of not wanting to leave.
SN’s verdict…
It was abundantly clear the Ten Hag only had one player on his mind to strengthen his midfield over the summer and that was De Jong. When that move collapsed, several different profiles were pursued.
United landed on Casemiro, who has started impressively and is now a certain starter. The obstacle United will need to overcome is the financial bit, having spent more than any other year.
Regardless, De Jong would be a quality addition to the squad but supporters must be spared another long transfer saga.
