EUROPEAN FOOTBALL

Manchester United looking to land De Jong

Kim Min-jae

Manchester United have made an official offer for Barcelona’s Frenkie De Jong. The Red Devils have been pursuing the Dutch Midfielder for a long time now. Eric Ten hag has made it clear that he wants Frenkie De Jong as a statement signing. Since then, the Management has been finding ways to lure De Jong to England. This signing would see Frenkie reuniting with his former coach.

But a transfer like this is easier said than done. Barcelona has not said ‘NO’ to De Jong moving away if they get the right price. But a potential transfer would also include the player’s willingness of moving to a new club. In this case, De Jong is clearly against the idea of moving to Old Trafford and has made this clear to both parties. Despite Barcelona reaching an agreement with Manchester United, things are at a standstill.

De Jong, 25, has been one of the best midfielders in the world. The Dutchman has been influential for Barca in recent times but has not quite hit the heights of his Ajax form. His role under Xavi is different from what it was under Ten Hag who feels he can get the best out of him. But Manchester United are not in the Champions League which is a big factor why De Jong is hesitant to join them. Moreover, he feels really happy at Barcelona and is looking to win major titles.

Lisandro Martinez signs 5-year deal with Manchester United

Manchester United have officially announced the signing of Argentine, Lisandro Martinez on a 5-year deal from Ajax. The CB is United’s second signing of this transfer window. There were various other clubs looking to lure Martinez away but United was always fast in the negotiations. The expected transfer fee is known to be around €50 million and potential adds on.

The price tag is hefty but Ten Hag wanted Lisandro as a part of his new project. The lack of ball-playing defenders at Old Trafford was another reason why Martinez was prioritized. Apart from this, Manchester United have also signed Christian Eriksen on a free transfer. Meanwhile, the Cristiano Ronaldo saga is taking different turns with his agent saying some things and Ten Hag saying something else.

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