Manchester United transfer news RECAP Frenkie de Jong deal latest plus Man Utd fixture news

The new season is just days away for Manchester United, but they find themselves still locked in a battle to sign Frenkie de Jong this summer.

United have spent much of the summer trying to get a deal over the line for the midfielder, with Barcelona playing hardball. Despite that, United are persisting with their interest as the 2022/23 campaign draws into view.

But they could be getting closer to a deal if the latest comments from Joan Laporta are anything to go by. The Barcelona president has been dropping more hints on De Jong's future, which could be good news for United.

Elsewhere, Cristiano Ronaldo's future continues to dominate the headlines following his return to action on Sunday. For the time being at least, he looks as though he will be up for selection for the opening game against Brighton on Sunday.

TODAY'S BIG TALKING POINT: Are you bothered about Cristiano Ronaldo leaving the Rayo Vallecano friendly early? Have your say here.

A recap of the day's United news below.

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This pre-season has served as a reminder - not that it was needed - of what a privilege it is travelling the world and covering sport's most scrutinised institution in Manchester United.

Mercifully, the Zoom era is over and handshakes are the norm again in the company of the manager or a player. Over the last few weeks, the dedicated United correspondents have spoken to Victor Lindelof, Fred, Tyrell Malacia, Anthony Elanga, Bruno Fernandes, David de Gea, Diogo Dalot, Tom Heaton and Christian Eriksen. None of them were sat behind a desk in front of an auditorium.

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