Man Utd told De Jong is worth €112m as Van Gaal gives old club transfer advice

Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has suggested that Frenkie de Jong, who continues to be heavily linked with a summer transfer to Old Trafford, is worth upwards of €100 million (£86m/$107m).

The Netherlands international midfielder is currently on the books of La Liga giants Barcelona, but a three-year stint at Camp Nou could soon be brought to a close as Premier League heavyweights close in.

De Jong has emerged as a top target for United, as they pass a coaching baton on to ex-Ajax boss Erik ten Hag, and Van Gaal can appreciate why so much interest is being shown in a classy playmaker.

Van Gaal, who is now in charge of the Dutch national team, has told NOS after seeing De Jong step off the bench to help inspire a 2-1 UEFA Nations League victory over Wales: “I already knew how important Frenkie is. I don't need to see that any more.

“Frenkie brings extra quality, that's why he is worth €112 million.”

Plenty are prepared to accept that De Jong could be worth as much as €112m (£96m/$120m) in the open market, but there has been no suggestion at present that United are willing to splash out a nine-figure sum on his services.

Manchester United haven't given up on signing Frenkie de Jong, with Erik ten Hag looking to make five signings this summer