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Frenkie de Jong has 90 per cent chance of joining Man Utd

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has a 90 per cent chance of joining Manchester United this summer, El Chiringuito journalist Jose Alvarez claims.

The Red Devils have earmarked the Netherlands international as their priority midfield target following the recommendation of new manager Erik ten Hag.

The club are currently locked in negotiations for the 25-year-old, but the price tag remains a stumbling block. While they are willing to pay €60 million plus add-ons, Barcelona are eyeing €80m upfront for his services.

There continues to be an impasse due to the difference in valuations between the clubs, but journalist Alvarez claims that there is a 90 per cent chance that the Dutch midfielder will end up at Old Trafford.

Our view:

Barcelona socios recently approved a couple of economic levers to help cover up the club’s losses, but there are still suggestions that they may need to offload players to make new signings.

However, there does not appear any urgency to do so after the much-needed financial boost. The Catalan giants seem prepared to wait for the right proposal to part ways with De Jong.

The onus is now on United to make a renewed approach for the ball-playing midfielder. Internal discussions seem to be underway, and a fresh proposal could be made over the coming days.

United may ideally want to negotiate a transfer fee in the middle of around €70m, and it remains to be seen whether they can persuade the Blaugrana into sanctioning the Dutchman’s exit.

Ten Hag’s insistence on signing De Jong is unsurprising. The midfielder was a key player under him at Ajax in 2018/19 where they won a Cup and League double and reached the Champions League semi-final.

De Jong excelled with his distribution and ability to win duels from the number 6 spot. He has been inconsistent at Barcelona in a central position, but could play in his preferred role again at Old Trafford.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com