Manchester United might not be able to bring in Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong as the player doesn’t seem to be interested in a move.
As per Fichajes, Frenkie de Jong should continue to ply his trade at Barcelona despite United remaining favourites to cut out a deal for the Dutch midfielder. He was linked throughout the summer but remained at Camp Nou.
United looked for alternative targets in the midfield and completed deals for Casemiro and Christian Eriksen from Real Madrid and Brentford respectively. Both players have had their contributions to help United revive its fortunes but the arrival of another midfielder would add more depth to United’s squad.
Erik ten Hag wanted to build his team around his former disciple but the lack of Champions League played a key role in his denial to don the United jersey.
His pending wages also further shortened his chances of leaving the Spanish club and his recent form should have the alarm bells ringing for the Red Devils. The 25-year-old has been in some encouraging form for his club and his performance in the World Cup also earned plaudits for him.
United might test their luck again next summer as their transition period will undergo for the next couple of transfer windows and there will be plenty of incomings and outgoings.
De Jong rebuffed an attempt from a journalist when he was asked about United in a press conference during the World Cup and this could be a hint about his intent.
United were hot on his heels and could again be involved in a fierce transfer battle this upcoming summer. Agreeing to a transfer fee won’t be a major issue but United’s priority would be to finalise the player’s personal terms.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure has reduced United’s wage bill to some extent and perhaps the time has come to reinvest the money into other players. De Jong also has been one of the top earners at Barcelona and offloading him might provide the club with some breather in the midst of their acute financial crisis.