Erik ten Hag eyes Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong and more Manchester United transfer rumours

Erik ten Hag is said to be’setting his sights’ on a Barcelona player, according to the latest transfer speculations concerning Manchester United.

According to rumors, Erik ten Hag is seeking for a reunion with Frenkie de Jong at Manchester United. After his hiring was confirmed on Thursday morning, Ten Hag is poised and ready to take charge at Old Trafford.

The focus has swiftly shifted to potential additions, with Sport reporting that Ten Hag will be granted a £250 million transfer budget for next season. Outgoings, on the other hand, must be considered.

De Jong is also said to be a key target for the future United manager, according to the same report. Ten Hag was, of course, his coach at Ajax before his high-profile move to Spanish giants Barcelona in 2019.

A fee of roughly £72 million has been suggested. De Jong came through the Ajax system and has made 135 appearances in all competitions since joining the Nou Camp.

De Jong has emerged as a rumoured frontrunner to replace Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic when they depart United at the end of the season, with his former coach and mentor eager to improve the United midfield.

Meanwhile, the Premier League heavyweights are said to be intensifying their pursuit of Brazilian forward Antony. According to the New York Times, United has expressed great interest in an Ajax player currently under Ten Hag’s tutelage.

Antony has put numerous elite clubs on notice this season, with 22 direct goal contributions. He is presently valued at approximately £31.5 million and can play on either flank.

However, with three years left on his contract in Amsterdam, interested suitors may have to pay more than market value. Antony joins Ajax in 2019 for £14.18 million from Sau Paulo.