Gary Neville was told Frenkie de Jong would prefer to join Chelsea over Manchester United

Gary Neville has revealed he was told that Frenkie de Jong would prefer a move to London and Chelsea rather than Manchester United.

The former Reds captain said he learned this information “third-hand” while out in Miami when Barcelona were on their pre-season tour there a fortnight ago. He clarified that it wasn’t a “concrete source” but said it is noteworthy amid reports Chelsea are making a late attempt to land the Dutchman.

De Jong remains Erik ten Hag’s top summer target after being left unconvinced by potential alternatives. United have agreed a deal in principle for the playmaker but this now seems quite insignificant.

READ MORE: Barcelona announcement could have Frenkie de Jong knock-on effect

Talks look to have halted since it emerged that Barcelona owe the player €17m in wages from a Covid-19 pandemic deferment agreement. Furthermore, De Jong himself has gone on record saying he would prefer to stay at the Nou Camp.

Neville reiterated this in his claims on Tuesday. Reacting to reports of a Chelsea move for De Jong on Twitter, he wrote: “I was in Miami when Barca were there playing two weeks ago and I got told (third hand) De Jong preferred staying at Barca or Chelsea and London. Wasn’t a concrete source but this follows that thought.”

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