Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, continues to harbor a strong interest in securing the services of Barcelona’s midfield maestro. The reports regarding Ten Hag’s interest for De Jong emerge straight from Spain. Ten Hag, who assumed the managerial role at Old Trafford in the summer of 2022, made De Jong his top transfer priority.
Manchester United and De Jong
In the previous summer transfer window, Manchester United reportedly had a bid accepted by Barcelona, amounting to approximately €75 million with an additional €10 million in potential add-ons. However, negotiations with the Dutch midfielder regarding personal terms proved to be a formidable challenge.
Several factors contributed to the inability to secure De Jong’s signature at that time. Firstly, Manchester United’s absence from the UEFA Champions League posed a significant hurdle. Frankie De Jong is keen on participating in Europe’s premier club competition. Secondly, reports indicated that there were pending wage payments owed to De Jong by Barcelona, further complicating matters.
Erik Ten Hag Desperate
Despite these initial setbacks, Ten Hag’s interest in acquiring Frenkie de Jong appears undiminished. With Manchester United now back in the Champions League, speculation and links between the club and the midfielder have resurfaced. Notably, Ten Hag has already moved to strengthen his midfield by signing Casemiro and Sofyan Amrabat. Even though the initial pursuit of Frankie fell through.
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While De Jong’s a vital part of Xavi’s Barcelona squad, the financial challenges could change the future plans. It is worth noting that negotiations for De Jong’s transfer are unlikely to be straightforward. The player has expressed his desire to stay at the Nou Camp, and Barcelona is expected to demand a substantial transfer fee for his services.
CONCLUSION
Erik ten Hag’s continued pursuit of Frenkie de Jong underscores the Dutch manager’s determination to bolster Manchester United’s midfield. However, whether this persistence will eventually lead to a successful reunion with the midfielder remains uncertain, given the complexities involved in any potential transfer.