According to rumors, Manchester United is exploring three alternative midfielders in addition to Frenkie de Jong if a move for the Barcelona player fails to materialize. The Dutch international remains at the top of United’s wishlist, but luring the 25-year-old master away from Catalonia is proving difficult.
De Jong wants to stay in Barcelona, and the club is willing to consider any bids that come their way.
However, United are fully aware that they may have to shift their focus to other targets if De Jong digs his feet in over a move.
Goal reports that Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice, and N’Golo Kante are all under consideration.
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However, a move for any of those targets appears unlikely thus far.
Phillips is hesitant to join United due to the rivalry between the two clubs and his relationship with Leeds.
Meanwhile, West Ham values Rice at close to £150 million, a figure United is unwilling to pay.
Finally, United is concerned that they may be used as bait in Kante’s contract negotiations with Chelsea.
The Frenchman is reported to be in talks with Stamford Bridge over a new contract, and it is believed that Kante would prefer to stay as he enters the final year of his contract.
Erik ten Hag has already made contact with his ex-player De Jong in an attempt to persuade him to join United.
However, he will need some convincing after De Jong made public his wish to stay with Barcelona for at least another season.
According to the article, Ten Hag is looking for at least five summer signings as United prepares to say farewell to six players in June.
Darwin Nunez, a Benfica forward, is another name of great attention.
United has made indications of a swap deal, although it is known that the Red Devils have yet to make an official offer.
The Hag wants another striker to join Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored 18 Premier League goals last season, as one of the faces of his new project.
Unfortunately, Liverpool is also interested in Nunez.
United is aware that any deal will consume a significant portion of their summer transfer budget, with Benfica now valuing the player at close to £70 million.
