Deal Close – Manchester United ‘close’ to agreeing fee for Barcelona ace after reaching personal terms
Manchester United appears to be closing in on a deal for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, according to the latest developments.
The Red Devils have been widely connected with the Dutchman since Erik ten Hag joined the club, but luring him away from Spain seems to be a difficult feat.
Despite suggestions that he wants to reunite with his previous manager at Old Trafford, Sport has now stated that they are close to settling on a deal for De Jong.
With the two clubs deep in talks, it is expected that United will pay €80 million (£68.7 million) for the 25-year-old.
De Jong joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2019 for an initial cost of €75 million and has since appeared in over 100 games for the Spanish giants.
De Jong and the Red Devils coach worked together for two years at Ajax before his transfer, with the midfielder becoming a fan favorite during his time at the Johan Cruyff Arena and playing a vital role in Ajax’s Champions League win in 2018/19.
With De Jong still in his prime, it is hoped that Ten Hag would be able to re-sign the player he coached in the Netherlands.
United has been desperate for midfield development and is currently short on squad depth with the departures of Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, and Juan Mata.
With a massive roster revamp already in the works, De Jong might be Ten Hag’s first of several summer signings.
United is also interested in Darwin Nunez, Christian Eriksen, and Pau Torres.
