Manchester United were one of the clubs that were interested in signing Frenkie de Jong during the summer transfer window. But the move never materialised as the player wanted to remain at Camp Nou despite internal pressure from Barça.
However, it appears Man United are prepared to reignite their efforts to sign the Dutch midfielder and have initiated fresh contacts, reports Mundo Deportivo.
The Premier League giants, led by coach Erik ten Hag, who had worked with de Jong during their time together at Ajax, are desperate to add more reinforcements to the midfield unit in an attempt to compete for the Premier League title next season.
The Red Devils understand that a January move for the player will be next to impossible. However, they are hoping to lure the midfielder at the end of the season, with the club’s director of football John Murtough meeting some Barça officials earlier this season to establish relations.
They are assured that the two parties will meet again in February when Manchester United are slated to play FC Barcelona in the UEFA Europa League playoff rounds.
Man United reportedly had a verbal agreement with de Jong’s agent Ali Dursun in the summer and the club were even willing to fork out €80 million for the player.
However, the equation has changed lately, especially with de Jong emerging as one of Barcelona’s most important midfielders. An equally impressive World Cup campaign has only helped the player further establish himself as a key element in Xavi’s setup.
Therefore, Barcelona may not appear that reluctant to offload de Jong in the summer. In fact, a transfer at the end of the season may only be considered if the player himself asks for it.
