This summer will be a pivotal one for the future of Manchester United as Sir Jim Ratcliffe takes charge of his first transfer window at the Premier League giants. Significant changes are expected at Old Trafford and the CEO of INEOS could assist Erik ten Hag in securing one of his long-standing targets.
In 2022, Manchester United reached an agreement with Barcelona for the transfer of Frenkie de Jong, but the talented Dutch player ultimately decided to remain with the La Liga giants. However, the Daily Mail reports that the Manchester club has maintained their interest in the midfielder, and there are indications that De Jong may be open to departing Barcelona this summer due to the uncertain prospects at the Catalan club, which is facing financial difficulties.
Chelsea is also reportedly monitoring the 26-year-old’s situation, while Barcelona has set a price tag for his potential transfer ahead of the summer window. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalan giants will demand £85million (€100million) for the acquisition of De Jong, which would help alleviate some of their financial burdens.
If the Netherlands star publicly expresses his desire to leave Spain, Manchester United will be among the contenders, and a move to Old Trafford would reunite the Dutch player with his former Ajax manager Ten Hag. The duo previously worked together from 2017-19, achieving domestic success and reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2019. The signing of De Jong would be a significant coup for United, although its feasibility remains uncertain.
According to the Source caughtoffside.com