Frenkie set to go to United
BY SIMON MULLOCK FRENKIE DE JONG has been convinced that his future lies with Manchester United after Erik ten Hag launched a charm offensive on the Dutch midfielder.
De Jong, 25, informed Barcelona that he had no intention of moving to Old Trafford when the Catalan club informed United they were willing to do business last month.
But Ten Hag’s first test as United boss was to persuade his former Ajax playmaker that he can realise his full potential with the Reds – and he passed the challenge with flying colours.
Their initial bid of around £60million has been rejected by Nou Camp bosses.
And although United were told that they would have to match the clubrecord £89m investment they lavished on Paul Pogba in 2016, sources in Holland believe a fee of £68m plus a package of add-ons will seal the deal.
De Jong wanted to stay
in Spain when Ten Hag first made his interest known – and cited as a reason United’s failure to qualify for the Champions League.
He was also reluctant to leave Barcelona after three seasons in which he has won just a single Copa del Rey following his £65m arrival from Ajax.
But Ten Hag explained to De Jong how he is planning to bring the glory years back to Old Trafford and wants to build a team around his talent.
There is a feeling in Holland that De Jong’s skill-set has not been utilised by Barcelona.
Former Dutch national team coach Bert van Marwijk said: “If Frenkie plays in the role he should be playing then he won’t be the best midfielder in Europe – he will be the best in the world.”
And with Benfica striker Darwin Nunez now expected to snub United to join Liverpool in an £85m deal, it’s vital for Ten Hag to make a statement signing.