Man Utd handed surprise Frenkie de Jong transfer boost as Barcelona 'player sales plan revealed'

Manchester United have been handed a potential boost in their transfer pursuit of Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong, according to reports from Spain.

United made the Dutchman one of their top targets this summer, with new manager Erik ten Hag keen to reunite with the player he coached at previous club Ajax.

But although both clubs did agree a fee, De Jong turned down the opportunity to move to Old Trafford.

Speaking to Dutch outlet NOS in September, the midfielder explained: "I had already decided in May that I wanted to stay. So I was very calm myself. I now feel welcome at the club. Nothing has ever changed with my team-mates."

De Jong saw his game time reduced at the beginning of the campaign - he even played at centre-back in pre-season - fuelling speculation that a future move away from Camp Nou was still on.

But he has become an increasingly key part of Xavi's side this season, with Spanish outlet Sport recently describing him as one of three 'untouchables' at Barca.

But a new report suggests that the future of De Jong, and other Barca stars, remains uncertain.

Barcelona could sell De Jong this summer

According to Sport, Barcelona plan to raise €120 million through player sales this summer in order to ease their dire financial situation.

Money problems continue to hinder Los Blancos, with Relevo claiming earlier this week that the club would ask the entire squad whether they would be willing to take a wage cut in order to comply with the La Liga salary cap.

Barca are currently unable to register the new contract of wonderkid midfielder Gavi with La Liga - and there is a clause in his contract that states he can leave as a free agent if it is not authorised by June 30.

To raise the reportedly required €120 million, the Spanish giants may have to sell some first team stars.

And while De Jong is now a key part of Xavi's side, the interest in him from United and other clubs could make a high-fee sale relatively simple - if the Dutchman agrees to move.

Last summer, United agreed to pay Barcelona a fee of €75 million for De Jong, and his displays this season will likely ensure the selling club can command an even higher sum.

And talkSPORT claim that the midfielder is interested in forming a midfield partnership at Old Trafford with Casemiro, which could further increase United's chances of finally landing their long-term top target.

Topics: Manchester United, Premier League, Erik Ten Hag, Frenkie De Jong, Barcelona, La Liga, Transfers

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.