Frenkie de Jong open to summer transfer as Barcelona hope to cash in on long-term Man Utd target

The Netherlands international moved to Catalunya in the summer of 2019 and was expected to be the long-term replacement for Sergio Busquets in the heart of Barca’s midfield. He has, however, struggled to live up to expectations – with injury problems doing his cause few favours.

There was talk of De Jong moving on in 2022, with Premier League giants United leading the clamour for his signature at that stage. Barca were willing to talk terms, but the Dutchman made it clear that he was settled in Spain and had no desire to move on.

According to AS, that stance is now being relaxed. De Jong has picked up three ankle problems this season – limiting his game time – and Barcelona are looking to offload saleable assets in a bid to raise much-needed funds.

De Jong is, along with Ronald Araujo and Raphinha, among those that the Liga giants are prepared to part with if the right offer is tabled. That may pique United’s interest once again, with the Red Devils still in the market for upgrades to the midfield engine room at Old Trafford.