Earlier on Friday, reports from Spain explained Chelsea have overtaken Manchester United in the chase for Frenkie de Jong.
The Blues owner, Todd Boehly, held talks with Barcelona officials on Thursday, during which the midfielder was a topic of discussion.
This is again reiterated by Sport, who then state the La Liga side ‘await the final offers’ from Chelsea and United for the 25-year-old.
De Jong is an important asset for the Catalan club to make money this summer. With the west London club and Erik ten Hag’s side now keen to sign him, Barca have opened the doors for his sale, as long as their €80m asking price is met.
After yesterday’s meeting, Chelsea wanted to make sure it was possible for them to sign the former Ajax man. It’s claimed the Blues have promised to make an official offer for De Jong in the next few hours.
The Red Devils, who have been trying to take the Netherlands international for weeks, will make an improved offer. That will be their final proposal. Sport state the war between United and Thomas Tuchel’s side favour Barcelona as it can help them raise the price.
De Jong, who is not keen to leave the Camp Nou, has to be convinced for the transfer. The report states his relationship with the Spanish giants could be impacted if he decides not to leave the club.
Barca are betting on the Dutchman’s sale as it not only help them raise funds that are needed to make signings, but also help them lower their wage bill.
Despite wanting to stay at Barcelona, the newspaper adds the player has been talking to United for a while. He and his entourage’s relationship is much closer to the Manchester club.
At the same time, Chelsea’s sporting project is more ambitious and reliable than United. The Blues will play in the Champions League next season.
Xavi Hernandez’s side have made it clear to both the English clubs that they want this case to be sorted out as quickly as possible. Manchester United and Chelsea are now trying to convince the Dutch midfielder to join them this summer.
Sport state: ‘The decisive hours for the future of De Jong have reached the final moment and everything will be decided in the coming days.’
With a transfer expected to take place, it remains to be seen whether De Jong will reunite with Ten Hag at United or pick Chelsea instead.
