Rio’s a huge fan of Barca star and wants him at United

FORMER centre-back Rio Ferdinand has welcomed United’s interest in signing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, insisting he would tick boxes that United need filling.

As reported by the MEN, United are weighing up a £75million move for the Dutchman ahead of this forthcoming summer’s transfer window. Incoming boss Erik ten Hag is keen to put his own stamp on the squad and De Jong is amongst his first targets.

The duo worked together at Ajax, meaning they know each other inside out.

De Jong, who turned 25 on Thursday, left the Dutch giants in the summer of 2019 to join Barcelona.

He has made steady progress at the La Liga heavyweights and has found himself central to manager Xavi’s plans in recent months. He has made a total of 45 appearances this season and chipped in with four goals and five assists.

Unsurprisingly, he is attracting interest ahead of the summer window opening for business and United are amongst his suitors. Should the Reds be successful in their efforts to lure him to Old Trafford, it would earn the tick of approval from Ferdinand, who has detailed just how big a fan he is of the central-midfielder.

“I’ve always thought he was a top player,” Ferdinand told Vibe with Five. “I watched him closely in the Champions League semifinal year, I got to see a lot of him as part of the BT team.

“They’re saying Frenkie de Jong could be the first player to come in under Erik ten Hag and I would be saying ‘yes, great signing’.

“He’s not huge in terms of frame but he is quick with the ball, really good dribbler, can get out of tight situations, makes good decisions, good passer, his balance and dribbling ability are really good.

“United are a team who are looking for players who can control the ball and control the game and get the team functioning in terms of balance and possession, I think he would be a good addition.”