Manchester United finally reach agreement with Barcelona over Frenkie de Jong transfer but deal could still collapse
Manchester United have finally reached an agreement with Barcelona to sign Frenkie de Jong, but the deal could still collapse as the Netherlands midfielder considers rejecting the move.
Erik ten Hag, appointed as manager of United in April, worked with De Jong at Ajax and has made the 25-year-old one of his top targets this summer.
United have been in talks with Barca for several weeks and were struggling to agree a fee with the Spanish giants, who are open to selling De Jong but only for a price they deem suitable.
Given Barcelona’s demands, it appeared as though the move could fall through but, according to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United have now made a breakthrough in negotiations.
It is claimed that a €85m (£72m) move has been agreed between the two clubs, with around £63m set to be paid up front and a further £10m heading to Barca in various add-ons.
While United appear to be closing in on a deal for De Jong, the transfer is far from over the line as the player still needs convincing that a move would be beneficial for his career.
De Jong has spent three enjoyable years at Barcelona and his priority is believed to be to remain at the Nou Camp.
As a result, Manchester United are yet to agree personal terms with De Jong, who has previously admitted that he is keen to stay at Barca.
But United still believe they can convince De Jong to make the move and use his relationship with Ten Hag to get the deal over the line.
Discussing the speculation surrounding his future during last month’s international break, De Jong told ESPN: ‘I prefer to stay with Barcelona.
‘Barcelona is just my dream club. Also from a young age. I just said it too. I’ve never regretted my choice despite the fact that I had hoped for more in terms of prizes than I’ve achieved so far. But I have never regretted my choice.’
