Manchester United told perfect transfer alternative if they fail in Frenkie de Jong chase

Manchester United fans want the club to make a move for Ruben Neves should they fail to sign Frenkie de Jong.

Excitement for Erik ten Hag's imminent arrival as the next United manager has increased this week as it emerged that the Dutchman is keen on reuniting with his former midfielder at Old Trafford. MEN Sport understands that United are weighing up a £75million move for De Jong this summer.

Though reports of a deal being close are wide of the mark, United have made contact with the Catalan club to gauge the 25-year-old's availability. There is a feeling that, though he would prefer to stay at Camp Nou, De Jong may be forced out of Barca this summer.

Barcelona's dire financial situation means if they are to make any signings of their own they will have to raise funds through player sales, with De Jong being one of their few expendable assets who would still fetch a high price. The emergence of midfield prodigies Pedri and Gavi has made it an even more attractive prospect.

The allure of working with Ten Hag again, after the pair enjoyed so much success in Amsterdam, may be tempting for De Jong and United could certainly pay Barca's asking price, but a deal still appears difficult to pull off. De Jong isn't exactly forcing his way out of Spain and if he must depart he would likely want to remain at a Champions League level club.

Additionally, there are likely to be plenty of sides who have qualified for Europe's top competition who would be interested in signing the Dutchman, with neighbours Manchester City a possible destination. It's a shame as De Jong would be the perfect signing to get Ten Hag's reign off to a flying start but the harsh reality is that it appears unlikely.

United still need to sign a new midfielder