Manchester United are reportedly planning to make another move for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong during this summer's transfer window.
The Red Devils pursued De Jong during the summer of 2022, with Erik ten Hag, who was in his first transfer market as head coach of the English giants, identifying the Netherlands international as his leading target.
Barcelona are believed to have expressed a willingness to do business with Man United, but the midfielder insisted on multiple occasions that he was not interested in a transfer.
De Jong has again been an important player for Xavi's side this season despite some injury problems, making 30 appearances in all competitions, and he has another two years left to run on his current deal.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have placed a renewal offer on the table for the ex-Ajax youngster, but it is yet to be signed, with the Dutchman thought to be holding out for more money.
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Man United 'still hoping to sign De Jong'
The report claims that Barcelona view De Jong as 'a fundamental player', but due to the club's financial situation, serious offers for the midfielder would be listened to this summer.
The Catalan giants are said to be keen on signing either Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi or Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich this summer, with De Jong therefore potentially being allowed to depart.
Ten Hag is said to remain determined to bring De Jong to Man United, viewing him as ideal signing to help transform a midfield which has struggled this season.
De Jong's representatives are allegedly expecting more interest from the 20-time English champions this summer, with Casemiro and Christian Eriksen potentially leaving Old Trafford.
The midfielder, who made the move to Barcelona from Ajax in July 2019, is currently on the sidelines with an ankle injury and is expected to miss the rest of the season.
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What is the midfield situation at Man United?
As mentioned, Casemiro is set to depart Man United this summer, with Al-Nassr said to be stepping up their interest in the 32-year-old, who has recently been pressed into action in the middle of the defence.
Eriksen is another player likely to leave, with the Denmark international out of contract in the summer of 2025, and he is seeking regular starts at this stage of his career.
Scott McTominay is expected to stay, despite being heavily linked with an exit last summer, while Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes are vital players for the Red Devils.
Mason Mount will also remain at the club despite his struggles this term, but Sofyan Amrabat will head back to parent club Fiorentina, while Donny van de Beek is set to depart on a permanent basis.
At least one central midfielder will therefore arrive this summer, while two centre-backs and a centre-forward are also set to move to Old Trafford in the upcoming market.
Matt Law
