Man United “contacted” over summer deal to sign Frenkie de Jong | OneFootball

Manchester United have been “contacted” by representatives of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong with the Dutch international’s future in Spain “far from certain”, according to a report.

TBR Football reveal a host of Premier League clubs, including the Red Devils, have been approached by intermediaries of De Jong over a blockbuster move at the end of the season.

“TBR Football can reveal that Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea. Manchester City and Manchester United are the clubs to have been contacted and informed of his situation – with a view to a possible deal this summer.”

Long-term Interest in De Jong

The 27-year-old has been a long-standing target at Old Trafford after a €85 million deal was agreed between United and Barcelona to reunite the Ajax midfielder with his former manager Erik ten Hag in Manchester.

However, the Mancunian side were unable to convince De Jong to make the switch during negotiations and the move collapsed.

Reports have nonetheless continued to link the Dutchman with Old Trafford since this poin,t with United crying out for a midfielder with the profile of De Jong – a ball-playing maestro capable of dictating the game.

There had been optimism at the club Kobbie Mainoo could grow into this role. But the academy starlet only turned 19 last season and the expectation for him to offer the type of polished performances associated with an experienced midfielder has been misguided.

A Frenkie-Sized Hole in Midfield

De Jong, with a wealth of experience at the highest level of club and international football, would be able to provide an immediate upgrade to Ruben Amorim’s midfield unit and a compliment to an existing United star.

Manuel Ugarte, 23, is a combative midfielder best deployed as a relentless presser who focuses on winning the ball back like a heat-seeking missile. A partner for the Uruguayan whose concern lies more in what happens once possession is regained – where De Jong thrives – would be the ideal partnership.

It would also enable Bruno Fernandes to be pushed further forward, where United’s attack is crying out for more guile and threat, after Amorim’s decision to deploy the club captain in central midfield for his progression abilities.

TBR Football contends United will face stiff competition from the Premier League to secure De Jong, however.

Arsenal and Liverpool are on the hunt for midfield reinforcements in the summer having both made approaches to sign Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi, who offers a similar profile to De Jong. Neither Chelsea nor City can be ruled out either given their ongoing fragilities in the centre of the pitch.

INEOS will have to move quickly and decisively to trump their domestic rivals to the capture of the Dutch international’s signature, while contending with his exorbitant wage packet at Camp Nou. But given the attributes he excels in are the exact ones missing from Amorim’s team, it may prove a price worth paying.

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