Manchester United remain engaged in working out a deal for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie De Jong. They have struggled in midfield for a number of years now. This problem is exacerbated after the departures of Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic to Juventus and Roma this summer. They need a marquee signing in that department to help them be competitive again. Frenkie De Jong has been on the top of their shortlist in this regard.
Throughout the transfer window, United has been after De Jong. It is said that they have reached an agreement on a price with Barcelona. However, the Red Devils are worried that the transaction may not go through because of a number of issues. It includes a dispute over deferred salaries that Barcelona owe the midfielder.
Moreover, president Joan Laporta has insisted in the media that De Jong is not for sale. The Dutch international himself wants to remain at the Nou Camp.
De Jong Not Wanted At Barca?
But recent reports from The Mirror claim that Barcelona are privately trying to force De Jong out of the club. They asked him to take a pay cut due to their financial situation. They currently still owe him those wages. The situation is still not resolved, and the Catalans are experiencing difficulties in the transfer market.
The source goes on to say that Xavi expressed his concerns about the player during a league game against Osasuna last season. But this is contrary to what Xavi has publicly stated, that he sees De Jong as a part of his future plans.
Overall, the situation does not look good for Barca. If the reports are correct, it is sad to see them forcing out a young player who took a pay cut to help them. De Jong is a massively talented player, and the Culers will hope that they can keep him around.
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