According to Roger Torello from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have boosted Manchester United in their pursuit of Dutch international midfielder Frenkie de Jong. The Dutchman to United was the transfer saga of summer 2022, with Erik ten Hag missing out on his priority target. According to the report from Torello, Barcelona will ask De Jong to take a further pay cut to ensure the Catalan giants fall within La Liga’s financial fair play guidelines. This could ultimately provide United with a great opportunity to sign the Dutch midfielder if he rejects the new terms.
Manchester United Receive Frenkie de Jong Boost
Barcelona to Ask De Jong to Take Another Pay Cut
The news of Barcelona asking De Jong for a further wage cut will give the Old Trafford giants encouragement in their long-term pursuit of the Dutchman. Ten Hag identified him as his number one target last summer, but the pursuit of his countryman was ultimately unsuccessful.
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Despite the financial frailties of the La Liga giants, they are exploring the possibilities of bringing Lionel Messi back to Camp Nou. To bring the Argentine legend back to the club, they will seemingly need to slash their wage bill, with plans to renegotiate some of their highest-earning contracts, including De Jong. The Dutch international is reportedly earning 232k per week, with his contract running until June 2026.
Manchester United Need Midfield Boost
Manchester United’s pursuit of De Jong was the talking point of the summer 2022 transfer window. With Barcelona still in financial turmoil, Ten Hag could finally obtain the vital piece in his Old Trafford puzzle. If United could sign a player of De Jong’s ilk, it would be a statement of intent for next season. Xavi, who has previously described the Dutchman as an “extraordinary footballer,” will seemingly need to cut costs this summer to balance the books and potentially bring Messi back to La Liga.
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The Dutch international would bring an abundance of class and poise to the Old Trafford midfield. He resists pressure unbelievably well and always seems composed when in possession. De Jong has a great footballing IQ, which sees him wanting to get on the ball and dictate the game. If the Old Trafford boss can finally get his long-term target, it will be a boost for everyone at the Theatre of Dreams.
