In a major transfer twist, Frenkie de Jong has reportedly rejected a new contract offer from Barcelona, signaling his openness to a reunion with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.
The Dutch midfielder, who has long been on United’s radar, is now said to be seeking a fresh challenge, and a move to Old Trafford looks increasingly likely for next summer.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, de Jong has not responded to Barcelona’s renewal offer, sparking intense speculation about his future.
Sources indicate that United’s interest in the player remains strong, with ten Hag eager to bring in his former Ajax protégé to bolster the midfield.
The move comes as Barcelona appears ready to part ways with de Jong. While his technical ability has never been in question, the club reportedly feels that his sporting performance has fallen short of expectations.
Additionally, de Jong has been hampered by three right ankle injuries, with the most recent one occurring at the Bernabeu.
These setbacks have contributed to Barcelona’s willingness to sell, with the club also looking to ease financial pressures.
De Jong’s potential switch to United has been met with excitement among fans. Many believe that his presence in the midfield would significantly improve the team’s quality.
“He is the kind of player we want in our midfield,” said one enthusiastic supporter. “He will surely add a lot of quality, especially under ten Hag.”
Erik ten Hag’s desire to reunite with de Jong is understandable.
The two enjoyed great success together at Ajax, where de Jong’s combination of composure, vision, and tactical intelligence made him a key figure in the team’s run to the Champions League semifinals in 2019.
United has struggled to find a midfielder with de Jong’s attributes, and his potential arrival could help address the team’s issues in controlling games from the center of the pitch.
While nothing is confirmed yet, all signs point towards a move next summer, with Barcelona likely to cash in on the player rather than risk losing him for a reduced fee later.
As the transfer saga unfolds, United fans will be eagerly anticipating what could be a marquee signing that transforms their midfield for the seasons to come.
For now, the wait continues, but the prospect of Frenkie de Jong in a Manchester United shirt looks more real than ever.
