Fabrizio Romano: Man Utd could make "statement" signing with development expected on £73m star

Manchester United would make a ‘statement’ signing if they succeed in luring Frenkie de Jong to Old Trafford and they will return to Barcelona with a fresh proposal ‘in the coming days’, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

The Red Devils are yet to seal an arrival since Erik ten Hag took over as their new manager, but it is clear that de Jong is among the Dutchman’s top targets.

It is understood that ten Hag has told the Manchester United hierarchy that securing de Jong’s services is vital as he aims to complete a midfield rebuild ahead of the upcoming campaign.

However, they failed with their opening gambit as Barcelona rejected a bid worth £51.3million, plus add-ons, earlier this month.

Romano has revealed discussions have been held behind the scenes at Old Trafford and a fresh proposal is expected to be submitted imminently, while talks are also at a key stage.

Although Barcelona have set an asking price of £73million, Manchester United are confident that de Jong could be landed for less than that figure due to their current financial predicament.

The Red Devils are prepared to offer the defensive midfielder a lucrative contract as well, with the Daily Star previously reporting that a whopping £395,000-a-week salary could be on the cards if the transfer is completed.

Barca agree De Jong transfer!? Hear more on The Football Terrace…

Romano believes Manchester United would be getting a new era off to a positive start by welcoming de Jong to Old Trafford.

The transfer guru feels the Red Devils will persist in attempting to break Barcelona’s resolve as the 43-cap Netherlands international is at the forefront of ten Hag’s plans.

Romano told GIVEMESPORT: “Frenkie would be a top signing as a player but also a