Frenkie de Jong: Bayern Munich plotting cut-price deal for long-term Man United target | OneFootball

Bayern Munich are reportedly set to reignite their interest in Barcelona midfielder and long-standing Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong ahead of the summer transfer window.

Midfield is believed to be an area of the pitch Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are keen on reinforcing and once again, links to De Jong – who has slipped past United’s fingers on multiple occasions – have emerged.

During Erik ten Hag’s first summer transfer window, the Barcelona midfielder was chased for months but a move never came to fruition due to the player’s unwillingness to move due to an issue over deferred wages that he was owed by his employers. This is despite the fact that the two European clubs agreed a deal for the midfielder’s switch to Old Trafford.

United have since maintained their interest in the player and in February, the side got some hope when it was suggested that De Jong may finally be open to leaving Camp Nou.

However, in keeping up with how the saga has always unfolded, the Netherlands international spoke to the media and poured cold water on claims he could join United. He even branded the rumours as “irritating”.

A report covered by The Peoples Person late last month explained that United offered the Blaugrana €90 million for De Jong, who is also wanted by Bayern.

Spanish publication Relevo have given an update on the situation and stated that Bayern could seal a bargain transfer for the United target, who has proven elusive to Ten Hag for years now.

It’s understood that De Jong could be available for as little as €60 million (£52m) amidst Barca’s desperate need to balance the books and improve their financial shape. A €60m sum would represent a significant slash from the €90m that United were apparently willing to fork out.

The Catalan giants require up to €100 million (£86m) before the end of June to ensure their accounts are in order. By selling De Jong, Barca would also offload his hefty salary from their wage bill.

Relevo note that De Jong is comfortable in Barcelona and his wish is to continue with the club.

However, Xavi’s side can contemplate letting him go because of how stacked they are in the middle of the park. Barca’s midfield options include Gavi, Pedri, Fermín and Ilkay Gundogan, just to mention a few names.

This term, De Jong has made 29 appearances for Barca across all competitions. He has managed just two goals in that period.

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