Frenkie de Jong to Manchester United probably won’t happen, here’s why

Manchester United are facing an ordeal in their quest to sign Frenkie de Jong this summer.

The Barcelona midfielder has emerged as one of the top targets for new coach Erik ten Hag. The Dutch tactician has worked under de Jong during his time at Ajax and had played a crucial role in helping him make his professional breakthrough.

Three years since his move to Barcelona, ten Hag is looking for a reunion at Old Trafford. Under his request, Manchester United are willing to fork out a sizable sum as well, with Fabrizio Romano speculating a bid of around €65 million.

Even if Manchester United reach an agreement with Barcelona over the transfer fee, the Premier League giants are facing another major roadblock in their pursuit of de Jong.

The said roadblock is the player himself, as de Jong has appeared firm in his desire to remain at Barcelona.

The midfielder considers Barcelona as his dream club. He has been vocal about his determination to play under Xavi Hernandez and help Barça achieve success in the years to come.

Xavi himself rates the Dutchman highly. But the Barcelona coach is aware of the fact that he may have to settle for his exit if it means the club can generate a sizable sum in the transfer market. His tactical requirement also does not adhere to de Jong’s style of play.

But it does not deter the former Ajax starlet, who has no intention to join Manchester United despite his connection with ten Hag.

The failure to offer Champions League football next season is a major contributing factor in de Jong’s decision so far, as the midfielder rates the competition highly and wants to secure participation in the UCL each passing season.

With less than two months remaining before the new season gets underway, time is running out for Man United as well, so it is up to the club and ten Hag to make one final push in an attempt to convince him to move to Premier League in this summer transfer window.