Man United ‘desperate’ to sign key Barcelona midfielder in January – report

In an interesting insight shared by Jordi Gil in SPORT, it has come to light that Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is very desperate to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong during the upcoming winter transfer window. 

This season has been particularly challenging for Manchester United, who find themselves in a precarious situation. The ongoing struggles have once again brought ten Hag’s management under scrutiny. 

After managing through two tough seasons at Old Trafford, the Dutchman faces mounting pressure as his side continues to perform poorly this season. 

In light of these difficulties, ten Hag is seeking to change the course of the team’s fortunes, and once again, De Jong stands out as his top target. 

The midfielder has been a long-standing desire for ten Hag since he took charge at Manchester United, although the player has consistently shown a preference for remaining at Barcelona.

Man United will not give up

Despite repeated setbacks in their attempts to secure his signature, Manchester United are determined to reignite their pursuit in the winter transfer market. 

Frenkie de Jong is once again a target for Manchester United. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

De Jong has had a limited role this season, playing just 24 minutes due to a complicated ankle injury. 

Meanwhile, ten Hag is well-acquainted with the midfielder from their successful time together at Ajax, and he believes the midfielder could be the catalyst needed to rejuvenate a team that is in constant need of rebuilding. 

Currently, United are struggling to keep pace with the rivals in the Premier League, a situation that is increasingly frustrating the club’s owners. 

Last chance for ten Hag

They have shown patience with ten Hag, but the winter transfer window could be his last chance to turn things around. 

If new signings, including potentially de Jong, do not lead to improvements, the club may reconsider its commitment to the manager, even considering the high costs associated with his release, as he is under contract until 2026.

On his part, de Jong has repeatedly expressed his happiness at Barcelona. With a contract running until 2026, he has no immediate intention of leaving. 

However, should Barcelona push him to depart to alleviate financial pressures, he might be open to considering a move. The coming months will be crucial for both Manchester United and de Jong as they navigate their respective challenges.