Manchester United officials will fly to Barcelona to push for Frenkie De Jong’s transfer. After snapping up Casemiro from arch-rivals Real Madrid, Erik Ten Hag’s long-standing infatuation with his once-protege is sharply back in focus. Such is Red Devils‘ desire to bring the Dutchman to Old Trafford that the club has dispatched delegates to Catalunya to secure the transfer. While the crafty midfielder is a cog in Xavi’s wheel, he is considered dispensable by the club’s bosses. 

Also Read: Why Casemiro won’t play for Manchester United against Liverpool

De Jong has stood his ground, however. Steadfast in his wish to remain at Nou Camp, the 25-year-old has so far rejected United’s overtures. But it’s not been all harmonious for De Jong at the Catalan club. Owed over  £17 million by Barcelona, club President Joan Laporta has refused to settle the dues. He argues that the contract signed between the De Jong camp and Barca’s then board under Josep Bartomeu is illegal, hence void. Regardless, he wishes to continue at the debt-ridden club, enticed by Champions League football and spooked by United’s everyday horrors in equal measure. 

Given Bluagrana’s dire finances, the exit door dangles over many a Cule. Unable to register new signing Jules Kounde for the new season, the club faces the embarrassing prospect of losing the Frenchman without a single match-minute under his belt. They paid  £46 million to Sevilla for his services and are liable to pay an additional £2 million if he departs at the end of the month. 

Also Read: Barcelona’s new signing Jules Kounde heading for premature exit?

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is reportedly in talks with Chelsea for a 27 million transfer. Laporta’s blessings lie with the two. Memphis Depay was rumoured to be heading out, but talks between the forward and Juventus have cooled. Martin Brathwaite remains a recalcitrant presence. Desperate to rid him from their books, Barca bosses have requested a mutual termination. The wily Dane has refused their offer, opting instead to see out his contract at the club.