De Jong says OK to Manchester United deal as Barcelona exit moves closer

De Jong says OK to Manchester United deal as Barcelona exit moves closer

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The Dutch midfielder's preference has always been to remain a Barça player

But the club's desire to sell him has forced him to reconsider his position

The big transfer that Barcelona hope to do before June 30 is closer to being resolved. Frenkie de Jong is now closer to signing for Manchester United after giving the green light to the deal after weeks of doubts. The player's camp were waiting for offers from Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain or Manchester City, but Barça's price tag -- at least €80 million -- has now allowed them to get involved in the race. As confirmed by The Athletic, De Jong has now shown a willingness to play in the Premier League with United privately. The English club know that and are trying to reach an agreement with Barça.

The Athletic explain that United are desperate to sign De Jong but have doubts about paying the 80 million euro asking price. They believe it is not consistent with the market, but the Blaugrana are proving inflexible when it comes to negotiating. They warned United weeks ago they would only listen to offers of a certain level. Barça paid 75 million for De Jong plus add-ons and have a large part of that amortised, but feel he's a top-level player and won't accept reductions. In addition, he renewed not long ago. He will only go for the right price or he will stay at Barça.

United have not yet presented a definitive offer. They have sounded out prices and there has been speculation of a 60 million bid plus add-ons, which Barça would not accept because they want 80 million fixed. There's room to negotiate but Barça have warned they want any deal closed before June 30, so things could move fast.

De Jong has spoken openly of his desire to stay at BArça. He joined the club in 2019 turning down bigger offers from elsewhere, including PSG, because it was his dream to play at Camp Nou. Now he's annoyed because Barça have not hidden that he is available for sale. The relationship has been ruptured by them putting him on the market and has provoked a change of heart over a possible move. That and his relationship with United coach Erik ten Hag, who has promised him he will be the star player. There will be a lot of investment at United and the club are confident of fighting for the Premier League again next season.

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