Frenkie de Jong to Manchester United has turned into something of a saga.
As soon as it became clear Erik ten Hag would become the new manager at Old Trafford, it was inevitable the links would begin. The manager worked so well with the midfielder at Ajax that the move makes sense, especially with the Red Devils needing additions in the middle of the pitch.
On Wednesday evening, Marca report Manchester United have now submitted an offer to Barcelona.
The Spanish newspaper state the bid consists of €60m initially, plus a further €20m in potential bonus payments. Marca say this offer is being ‘seriously’ studied by Barcelona, as it comes close to what the Catalan club have been asking for.
Marca go on to say: ‘Ten Hag has spoken with the footballer to convince him to be his star at United. He has told him that the whole game will revolve around him, being the reference in midfield. His ownership (starting place) is assured and with the responsibility of being the conductor of the new project at Old Trafford.’
Given all of this, the article explains De Jong is getting ‘further away’ from Barcelona, despite what the player may have said about seeing his future at the Camp Nou.
Marca still suggest that despite the offer being close to what Barcelona want, the Blaugrana will likely still push for a little more before they agree on a fee. There’s increased optimism about De Jong accepting a move, and a switch to Manchester United is absolutely not talked down by the newspaper.
