Chelsea have been dealt another transfer blow as Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has told the Blues that he prefers a move to Manchester United.
United have been long term admirers of the Dutch midfielder and a deal to bring De Jong to Manchester is said to be slowly inching closer. Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag is a huge fan of the midfielder and reportedly wants to build his United team around the Dutchman.
New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly flew out to Barcelona in a desperate attempt to hijack the deal for De Jong, but the player made his feelings very clear to the American. The 25-year-old is believed to be favouring a move to United if he decides to leave the Catalan club.
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A reunion with Ten Hag could be the main reason why De Jong would rather move to Manchester than London. The pair spent time together at Ajax.
Frenkie de Jong does not want to join Chelsea. If he leaves Barcelona, the only option he values is #mufc. [@marca via @ManagingBarca]
However, despite Ten Hag making it clear that he wants De Jong at United as soon as possible. The transfer doesn’t look likely to be completely anytime soon.
The deal is being held up as Barcelona owe De Jong £17 million in deferred payments and bonuses from during the COVID pandemic.
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Furthermore, it has been previously reported that despite being attracted to a possible reunion with Ten Hag, De Jong’s main preference is to stay with the Nou Camp club. He has previously described playing for Barcelona as his dream.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta publicly said earlier this week that De Jong is not for sale. He said: “Frenkie de Jong is Barcelona player - we don’t want to sell him unless we have no other choice.” Now that could just be a statement to make United up their offer for the player.
Chelsea are still yet to register any new players this summer, but a deal to bring Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling to Stamford Bridge is imminent.
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Their pursuit of Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt looks to be in vein as the Dutchman is reportedly set to join German champions Bayern Munich. The Bavarian club are set to make an offer for the centre back.
Bayern Munich plan to make their first move for Matthijs de Ligt in the coming days, according to Sky in Germany 👀 Chelsea have also shown interest in the Dutch defender
The Blues have reportedly had a bid accepted by Leeds for Brazilian winger Raphinha but the player and his agent are waiting to see if Barcelona will make a move.
A busy period awaits the Chelsea officials as they look to secure manager Thomas Tuchel’s top targets ahead of the new season.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Manchester United Transfer News & Rumours, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Manchester United, Chelsea, Frenkie De Jong