Man Utd transfer news: Barcelona president drops Frenkie de Jong hint with Liverpool failure a timely boost

The Barcelona president’s latest comments spell bad news for Liverpool, though have given Man Utd fresh hope in their Frenkie de Jong pursuit on two fronts.

Barcelona were once the apex predator in the transfer market, though their financial difficulties have brought about a change of fortune. Indeed, it is their prized assets who are now at the mercy of richer clubs overseas.

Liverpool have been linked with activating the alleged release clause of Spanish wonderkid Gavi.

Also in midfield, Manchester United are pushing hard to sign Dutch maestro, Frenkie de Jong.

United’s first bid totalling £60m was rebuffed. However, the latest comments from Barcelona president Joan Laporta make positive reading for United fans.

Firstly, senior Barcelona official Eduard Romeu has stated that £426m is needed to “save” the Spanish giants.

The obvious way to avert financial meltdown is through high profile player sales. And according to Laporta, that is something Barcelona are prepared to sanction.

Via the Manchester Ecvening News, Laporta said: “If our economic situation requires the sale of an important player, we are ready for that.”

De Jong is one of Barca’s most saleable assets and ESPN claimed they’ll seek around £85m before waving goodbye.

Barcelona may also be more willing to sever ties with De Jong once Gavi’s future is secured. That’s where Liverpool’s disappointment and Laporta’s additional comments enter the equation.

The Reds were reportedly aiming to activate Gavi’s €50million (£42.7m) release clause before it is either removed or significantly increased upon signing a new contract.

The Reds are poised to be left empty-handed with Laporta insistent a renewal is just around the corner.

“We are very close to reaching an