Manchester United have made a poor start to the Premier League season with only one win in six outings so far, including none in their last four. A summer revamp has not worked out as expected but more additions to resolve some issues may be on the cards.
El Nacional has reported that the Red Devils are interested in signing Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong. Chelsea have also been linked with the Dutchman’s international in recent weeks, with his future at Camp Nou looking bleak.
Hansi Flick has opted in favour of using Pedri and Rodri in his deeper-lying midfield positions, and with Fermin Lopez playing as the number 10, De Jong, who has been injured since the start of the season, faces the prospect of being second fiddle.
Given that Barca also have the likes of Marc Bernal and Marc Casado to count on, El Nacional has added that they are prepared to consider offers for De Jong, although it is believed that an offer of at least £51 million will have to be made to seal his services.
De Jong an excellent addition to the PL
Frenkie de Jong promises to be a terrific addition to the Premier League. A technically world-class player, who excels in breaking the lines, dictating tempo, controlling possession and being handy in transitions, he promises to be a good fit.
It comes as no surprise Manchester United are eyeing him as Bruno Fernandes’ advanced role has meant they lack somebody capable of orchestrating play in midfield as the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans not showed consistent form.
De Jong’s experience, coupled with him being in the best years of his career at 29, means United can be confident that their investment in his services will pay off. However, Chelsea’s interest could make them second favourites for his purchase.
Should De Jong remain in a secondary role at Barcelona for much of the season, he could consider leaving the club despite expressing his satisfaction with the La Liga side but at the same time, he will consider his next sporting project carefully.
Chelsea, as things stand, have a better chance to qualifying for next season’s Champions League and are looking like a well-oiled unit hat is missing quality mainly in midfield. Frenkie de Jong may believe he can provide as opposed to joining another club, while the Blues’ exciting playing style and form under Xabi Alonso may help them trump Man United to his services.
