Roland Cutinho
Manchester United ruled out of the race to sign Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong this summer
According to Ben Jacobs of Give Me Sport, Arsenal, and Manchester United are unlikely to pursue a transfer for Barcelona star Frenkie De Jong if he becomes available this summer.
The midfielder’s huge asking price, including his agent fee and salary, would present a huge challenge for the Premier League clubs.
Despite De Jong’s significant contributions to Barcelona, speculation about his future continues to circulate.
The 26-year-old midfielder played a crucial role under coach Xavi Hernandez, featuring in 43 matches and logging substantial playing time.
However, due to Barcelona’s financial difficulties and the need to generate funds, De Jong’s name has emerged among those potentially leaving the club.
While Manchester City have been linked with the player, there have also been reports linking Arsenal and United with an interest in acquiring his services.
Last summer, the Red Devils reached an agreement with Barcelona for a transfer fee of £71 million for De Jong. However, the midfielder declined the move for several reasons.
Firstly, he expressed his desire to stay at Camp Nou. Secondly, a significant concern revolved around the £17m in deferred salary payments owed by the Spanish club.
Man United have continued to show interest in the Dutch maestro during the current transfer window. Manager Erik ten Hag might need a new midfielder to pair with Casemiro if Fred or Scott McTominay depart this summer.
However, the Red Devils are facing financial constraints this summer, which has affected their transfer activity. Ten Hag will need to adopt a cautious approach due to the limited resources available, unlike his predecessors, who had more flexibility in the transfer market.
Due to financial limitations, the club may not be able to afford a transfer for the Barcelona star this summer. Sofyan Amrabat has been touted as a cheaper alternative for the club.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have also been linked with the midfielder as Mikel Arteta seeks to strengthen his midfield.
But with the recent signing of Declan Rice for a club record fee, it is highly unlikely for them to splash out a huge sum to sign De Jong. The Gunners might need a midfielder if Thomas Partey leaves.
Romeo Lavia is a primary target for Arsenal, and the manager might prioritise a move for the Belgian instead of pursuing the expensive Dutchman. As a result, it appears unlikely that they will make a move for the Barcelona ace.
With both clubs ruled out, Man City have a clear path in the race to sign the former Ajax midfielder. After missing out on Rice, the Premier League champions will be looking for alternate options.
Losing out on De Jong will be frustrating for the fans. Ten Hag wanted to sign the player last season, and for months, the club was heavily linked with a transfer.
But with limited options in hand, the Red Devils would need to divert their attention to cheaper alternatives. However, any potential move will ultimately depend on the sales covered by the club this summer.
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Hence, it remains to be seen whether United prefer to pursue a new defensive midfielder or stick with their current options ahead of the upcoming season.
