Frenkie de Jong persistence shows Manchester United faith in Erik ten Hag

Another week, but the same old story. Manchester United begin their Premier League campaign in just 11 days' time and still remain in talks over a possible deal to sign Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona.

It has been almost 11 weeks since United's interest in the Dutchman emerged, and time really is starting to run out if they are to have him in place by the end of the window.

United sources have reiterated throughout the process that talks could quickly accelerate once the financial hurdles have been overcome, and even after the prolonged pursuit, it remains a possibility that a deal could yet move with haste.

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But given how long the saga has dragged on for already, it is understandable why United fans might be rolling their eyes at the mere suggestion of any imminent progress in a deal.

United fans will only believe it when they see it if De Jong is really going to swap Barcelona for Manchester this summer, though the fact that they have not given up hope on a deal yet does at least make something rather clear to see.

The club are keen to ensure they are not repeating past mistakes under Ten Hag, one of which is in the transfer market, where they are keen to give the Dutchman freedom to pursue any targets he deems necessary.

It was widely acknowledged that United did not have a pressing need for a new left-back this summer, but they still backed Ten Hag to sign compatriot Tyrell Malacia, accepting that it was a worthwhile investment if the manager had requested him.

This faith is also being demonstrated in their persistence to land De Jong this summer, with United still happy to pursue a deal for the manager's top midfield target despite the tedious transfer