Manchester United have reportedly turned down a transfer proposal from Barcelona. The deal would have seen Harry Maguire go to Barcelona as a part of the deal for Frenkie De Jong.
MANCHESTER UNITED AND FRENKIE DE JONG TRANSFER SAGA FULL STORY
The Red Devils have been negotiating with Xavi’s side over a deal for De Jong for several weeks. Erik Ten Hag has identified the 25-year-old as his top summer target. De Jong and Ten Hag enjoyed a successful stint at Ajax. The successful stint impressed Barca to spend big money on the Dutch midfielder.
However, his stint at Barcelona has been underwhelming. Although, Ten Hag still thinks he can bring the best out of the midfielder at Manchester United. Barcelona are therefore holding out for a £73m fee to sanction the midfielder’s sale this summer. Although, United are still falling short of the Blaugrana’s asking price.
BARCELONA WANTED HARRY MAGUIRE AS A PART OF THE DEAL
The Catalan side have put an effort to help Man United drive the price down. Barcelona are interested in bringing Harry Maguire to the club. However, a report claims the proposal was rejected as Ten Hag is keen to keep the England center-back at the club. Maguire donned the captain’s armband under Ralf Ragnick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last season.
However, Maguire was widely criticised following a string of error-prone performances. The 29-year-old could be stripped of the captaincy by Ten Hag ahead of a new campaign. But, he will be given the chance to prove himself as the Red Devils aim to bolster their defence. Meanwhile, the report states that Manchester United and Barca have made progress in discussions for De Jong. There is growing optimism that a deal can be struck.
Ten Hag is supposedly keen to wrap up a deal for De Jong in time for Manchester United’s pre-season tour. The Red Devils are heading to Australia and Thailand next month. The Netherlands international has scored 13 goals and set up 17 assists in 139 games for Barca.
He has won only one Copa del Rey with the Catalan giants so far. Barcelona are expected to wrap up the signing of Franck Kessie ahead of Dutchman’s potential exit. Red Devils will likely pursue a striker, center-back, and backup goalkeeper in the coming weeks.
Follow us on Twitter for regular football updates.
