Manchester United’s midfield conundrum might be solved by one of their long-term targets in January.
United headed into the new season without bringing in a new midfielder despite failing to control the game in the middle of the park with any reliable consistency last term.
Ruben Amorim’s insistence on pitching Kobbie Mainoo against Bruno Fernandes means United are likely to struggle this term too, as Fernandes, Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte have many qualities, but none of them are good at keeping the ball.
Man United missed out on De Jong under Ten Hag
Former United boss Erik ten Hag faced similar concerns with Fred and Scott McTominay at his disposal. Accordingly he desperately tried to sign Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona.
United even agreed a transfer fee with Barca over the transfer of the ex-Ajax man. However, they failed to find an agreement with the technically gifted midfielder, who couldn’t resolve his deferred salary issue at Camp Nou.
Now, the Red Devils could be handed another opportunity to bring De Jong to Old Trafford, as he is yet again facing an uncertain future at Barcelona.
De Jong could leave Barcelona in January
According to Fichajes, De Jong has been given an ultimatum by Barcelona.
The 28-year-old has entered the final year of his contract at the club. Publicly, the Dutchman has expressed his desire to continue in Barcelona.
However, as things stand, both parties are nowhere near an agreement over a renewal. Considering Barcelona’s financial predicament, president Joan Laporta has no plans to lose an asset like De Jong for free next summer.
It is understood Laporta has made it clear that if the Netherlands international does not agree a new deal with the club before January, they will listen to offers for him during the winter window.
The clock is ticking, and this situation could open doors for United to test the La Liga giants’ resolve once again.
De Jong has rediscovered his best form under Hansi Flick, establishing himself as a key part of his side’s midfield.
Featured image David Ramos via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
Vishal Singh
Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
