Manchester United's winners and losers if Frenkie de Jong transfer gets done

Each day presents a different twist and turn in the Frenkie de Jong saga, with the latest being that the Barcelona midfielder is reportedly willing to take a pay cut to remain at the club. However, United remain keen on bringing him in after deal in principle has been agreed, the Manchester Evening News understands.

United’s pursuit of the midfielder has been one of the worst kept secrets in football this summer, with new manager Erik ten Hag having identified him as an ideal target as he begins his rebuild. De Jong would cost United around £70million, with Barcelona in need to recoup funds after making several high-profile this signings this summer, not to mention their financial difficulties.

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Barcelona have signed Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Franck Kessie, Ferran Torres and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang this in 2022 alone, without selling any high profile first-team players. The De Jong saga looks like it's going to rumble on until the window closes, but United are seemingly keen on staying active in communications to push a deal through.

And should that come to pass, we'll see winners and losers in the current United squad. Here's a list of those who could come out in a better situation because of the Dutchman coming to Old Trafford:

WINNERS

Fred

For now, it feels like Fred's place in the United squad is safe. Ten Hag spoke glowingly in his pre-Aston Villa press conference. He said: "I think he [Fred] can even be better. I will support him in that. He also brings energy in the team by his attitude."

United are not in the market for a typical 'defensive' midfielder, but alongside De Jong that defensive minded player would be needed.