Barcelona are yet to decide on Frenkie De Jong’s future amid interest from Manchester United.
De Jong has worked with incoming Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag before. They were a part of the Ajax team of the 2018/19 season which reached the semi-finals of the Champions League.
Manchester United will need improvements in their deeper midfield players. Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic are reaching the end of their contracts, while Scott McTominay and Fred’s technical weaknesses are well documented. A player like De Jong who is proficient with the ball at his feet would be a valuable addition.
The Dillema of Frenkie De Jong
De Jong has not been able to produce the same displays for the Spanish giants consistently since being signed for a whopping 65 million pounds. A move to the Premier League under the tutelage of Erik Ten Hag may seem tempting for the 25-year-old. But United currently seem to be a work-in-progress. Poor performances will see them play in the Europa or even the Conference League next season, which would not appeal to the Dutchman.
Barcelona on the other hand have seemed to turn a corner since the appointment of Xavi. The prospect of playing under one of the greatest midfielders of all time will certainly be of interest to De Jong.
Barcelona’s Decision:
While United have made their decision to go after Frenkie De Jong, his current club are not so sure. Sporting director Mateu Alemany was quoted saying:
“Frenkie is a quality player, he’s very important and we will go from situation to situation. We haven’t made any decisions on the squad, De Jong is important for us. We are clear about what we need, and also that we are conditioned by financial fair play.”
De Jong might be sold to help the Catalan club’s delicate financial situation, especially after the emergence of Pedri, Gavi and Nico Gonzales. United has initiated contact to bring the superstar to Old Trafford but there is no agreement yet. Manchester United securing his signature would be a coup and a statement of intent to kickstart their new era.
