Manchester United are waiting to see how Frenkie de Jong‘s wage dispute with Barcelona pans out, and have taken a proactive move.
Chief executive Richard Arnold and football director John Murtough have flown to Barcelona to attempt to close a deal for the 44-time capped Netherlands international.
Marca report one piece of good news. Their latest report claims De Jong only wants to sign for Manchester United if he does leave Barcelona.
This should shut down news which broke last week via Spanish outlet Relevo which claimed Chelsea had entered the race for his signature. It does not sound like De Jong is interested.
READ MORE: Confirmed Manchester United transfers, ins, outs, loans, releases for 2022/23
De Jong ‘will only consider Manchester United’
Marca‘s report states: “If De Jong finds himself in the situation of having to leave, United is the only option he values.”
It adds he is willing to work with Erik ten Hag and values the fact his former Ajax boss is working hard to try and sign him.
De Jong’s salary demands are not said to be a problem for United, and nor is the fee. United’s desire to sign him is described as ‘more real than ever’.
United have clearly made an impression
A lot of the speculation over Frenkie de Jong and Barcelona has been focused on the midfielder’s desire to stay at the Nou Camp.
But this latest report shows that even if that is the case, Manchester United have left an impression on him, and emerged as a very credible option.
While in Barcelona, United’s representatives will hopefully get the chance to speak to De Jong, and further convince him to make the move.
There are financial discrepancies with De Jong and Barcelona to iron out, The Telegraph report, with the player owed money, and club insisting he takes a pay cut to stay. How these issues get resolved is unclear, but Manchester United are certainly ready to take him.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
