According to Jason Burt of The Telegraph, Manchester United have seemingly admitted defeat in their pursuit of Chelsea target Frenkie de Jong, as the player has reportedly indicated he has no interest in joining them. The Red Devils have begun looking at other targets, including Adrien Rabiot and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, with the player looking like he will either take a pay cut and stay at the Camp Nou or join Chelsea.
Frenkie de Jong: ‘Incredible Player’ Rejects Move to Manchester United in Boost for Chelsea
De Jong to decide between remaining at Barcelona or signing for Chelsea
Manchester United and Chelsea have both earmarked De Jong as an “incredible player” who could make a massive difference to either team. However, despite the Red Devils’ protracted pursuit of the Dutch international, the Kings Road club look set to have moved to the front of the queue as the midfield star has seemingly rejected a move to Old Trafford in an embarrassing development for the club in crisis.
In a recent interview with the Byeline, Harry Redknapp discussed De Jong’s future, “So, Manchester United are not going to get him, I’ve heard that from somebody right at the very, very, very top at Manchester United, he really wants to go to Chelsea.” In addition to being targeted by both Premier League clubs, FC Barcelona have been vocal about their desire to keep the Dutchman.
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What Qualities the Dutch International Would Bring to Chelsea
De Jong would bring a plethora of qualities to the Chelsea midfield, with his ability to always look comfortable on the ball, alongside his ball progression skills instantly bringing qualities currently lacking in the Stamford Bridge engine room.
He is a disciplined player and possesses an excellent footballing brain, which makes him adept at finding space, allowing him to dictate the play. Losing out on De Jong would be a massive blow for Erik ten Hag but bringing him in would be a statement signing for Chelsea and could transform their midfield.
Frenkie De Jong does not want to join Manchester United.
Barcelona want De Jong to sign a new deal on reduced terms. His future will be sorted out this week ahead of the deadline for La Liga’s cost controls. Chelsea have held talks.
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— Simon Phillips (@siphillipssport) August 10, 2022
