Man Utd ‘waiting’ for ‘opportunity’ to agree deal for De Jong | OneFootball

Manchester United are keeping tabs on Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong and could pounce on the opportunity to sign him this summer, according to Sport.

The Red Devils have held a long-term interest in the Dutchman. They were determined to sign him in 2022 after the arrival of manager Erik ten Hag.

A deal worth €85 million was agreed with the Blaugrana, but the midfielder made it clear that did not want to leave the Catalan giants.

Sport (page 3) now claim there are no non-transferable players in the squad and De Jong needs to commit to a new contract with a pay cut to continue at the club.

However, the Dutchman appears to be eyeing a pay rise. He is currently on a ‘medium-level’ salary. He wants to continue despite his deal expiring in June 2026.

United are currently ‘waiting for events’ and could pounce on the ‘opportunity’ to sign him. Paris Saint-Germain are also mentioned as a suitor for the former Ajax man.

De Jong unlikely to move to Man Utd this summer

Ten Hag was eager to reunite with De Jong two years ago, but the midfielder had no desire to leave Barcelona. He refused to negotiate personal terms over a transfer.

There could be a similar situation this time around. The 26-year-old has not changed his stance and appears determined to stay with the Blaugrana.

Even if he becomes available in the transfer market, United may struggle to afford him.

Barcelona were eyeing €85m for him two years ago and it has been reported that they could demand €100m based on the huge outlay on midfielders in recent years.

With no Champions League football and financial constraints, United are unlikely to pay such a fee.

His wages are also another huge stumbling block for United. He currently earns a staggering €475,000 per week and will want a pay rise to consider a move to Old Trafford.

United are planning to lower their wage bill with the potential exits of Raphael Varane, Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial this summer. Casemiro could also head for the exit door.

The new hierarchy are determined to control their wage structure and are unlikely to make De Jong the highest earner in the Premier League.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Capology.com.