Man Utd confident of securing cut-price Frenkie De Jong transfer as first bid prepared

Manchester United are growing increasingly confident of securing a £50million deal for Frenkie De Jong, as they have prepared their first bid according to The Sun.

United have reportedly opened talks with Barcelona as they see De Jong as the ideal replacement for Paul Pogba, who was given a touching send-off by the club who confirmed his summer departure. New boss Erik ten Hag is a huge fan of De Jong after working with the midfielder at Ajax, and is keen to reunite at Old Trafford.

It was thought that De Jong was keen to snub interest and fight for his place at Barcelona, handing United a blow. But bosses are becoming confident that a deal can be done, and for a much lower price than expected.

De Jong has been a bit part of the Barcelona midfield since signing for the club in 2019, but with the Catalan side keen to make further transfers this summer, they have to balance the books. In an ideal world Xavi would love to keep all of his assets, but due to their financial issues their hand has been forced.

With the likes of Pedri and Gavi prioritised, De Jong many have to make way in order for Barcelona to pursue targets such as Robert Lewandowski. And La Liga president Javier Tebas backed this, by saying it is 'impossible' for the club to do business unless they sell.

And that's music to United's ears, who have been interested in De Jong for some time, especially since Ten Hag was rumoured to be joining the club. Ten Hag will already look to work Donny van de Beek into his plans, and he could reunite his former Ajax midfield pairing at Old Trafford.

Video: Erik ten Hag: No 'risk' to come to Manchester United (Mirror)

Mesut Ozil suspended by Fenerbahce

Erik ten Hag sets out plans for Man Utd

Premier League transfer news