Manchester United add new striker to shortlist as Frenkie de Jong race hots up and other transfer rumours

Manchester United face competition from cross-city rivals Manchester City for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, according to reports.

De Jong has seen reports surrounding a move to Old Trafford intensify in recent months after Erik ten Hag was announced as the next permanent manager. United have been eager to improve their midfield following an underwhelming campaign which saw the heart of the pitch exploited, as well as, the impending departures of Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic.

With the Dutchman arriving at the 20-time English champions in the summer, a squad rebuild is on the horizon and current interim boss Ralf Rangnick has already revealed that "quite a few new players" are needed. The Times has reported that City have made De Jong a priority.

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United have been repeatedly linked with the 24-year-old with the club eager to add midfield additions ahead of the upcoming campaign. In January, the Manchester Evening News reported that the Reds accepted the midfield was the 'biggest problem'.

For the Reds to capture De Jong and set up a reunion with Ten Hag, they will need to fend off Pep Guardiola's side - as they look to replace Fernandinho - as well as Barcelona. Xavi recently reaffirmed his hopes of maintaining his services claiming the midfielder is an 'important' player.

ESPN have reported that United are among the clubs interested in Reims forward Hugo Ekitike. It has been said that the Reds have enquired with the French club over the 19-year-old striker.

The forward position is another department that Rangnick has highlighted for improvement. But as per the report, Arsenal, Newcastle and Bayern Munich are in the hunt.

Newcastle were on the verge of