Liverpool are reportedly interested in completing the signing of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong – which would represent a major blow for Man United.
One of the longest-running transfer sagas of the summer saw United pursuing De Jong for much of the window.
The Dutchman was the primary transfer target of new United boss Erik ten Hag. It was reported the club had matched Barcelona’s £64 million asking price for the player.
But De Jong himself was not keen, with a lack of Champions League football, and a desire to improve himself at Barca, cited as two main reasons behind his decision to stay in Spain.
The Red Devils did eventually sign a midfielder, with Casemiro joining the club from Real Madrid on August 22. But this came as their chances of signing De Jong dropped dramatically.
Given his £64 million price tag last summer, it is likely that Liverpool would have to fork out a similar amount to sign the midfielder.
Now, Manchester United could be left embarrassed again, with a Premier League rival reportedly keen on securing the Dutchman’s services.
This has come as a surprise to some fans, especially given Xavi’s comments back on August on De Jong’s status (quotes via Goal): “He knows what I think, and what the club want and need. Of course I’m counting on him, he’s a great player.”
Article updated 9 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
