Frenkie de Jong has finally been agreed upon by Manchester United and Barcelona, although the deal might still fall through if the Dutch midfielder decides to turn down the offer.
De Jong, 25, is one of United manager Erik ten Hag’s primary objectives this summer. Ten Hag and De Jong previously worked together at Ajax.
Barca and United have been in negotiations for a number of weeks, but United was finding it difficult to come to terms on a price with the Spanish giants, who are willing to trade De Jong but only for a sum they think appropriate.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Manchester United have now reached a breakthrough in negotiations despite Barcelona’s demands, which made it seem as though the transfer might not go through.
According to reports, the two clubs have reached an agreement on a deal worth €85 million (£72 million), with about £63 million to be paid upfront and a further £10 million going to Barca in different add-ons.
De Jong’s transfer to United may be nearing completion, but there is still more work to be done because the player needs to be convinced that the move will advance his career.
De Jong has enjoyed his three years at Barcelona, and it is thought that staying at the Nou Camp is his first objective.