"Privately..." - Journalist now drops intriguing Man United and De Jong claim

Manchester United could still win their battle to welcome Frenkie de Jong to Old Trafford as Barcelona are ‘offering him to clubs’ behind the scenes, according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs.

Erik ten Hag is in the process of rebuilding the squad he inherited following his summer appointment but, with the new season less than two weeks away, the Dutchman has failed in his attempts to lure de Jong to the Premier League.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that offers for de Jong have been rejected while the club tries to decipher the central midfielder’s plans.

The development comes after it had been reported that Manchester United had agreed an initial fee of £63million with the La Liga giants, while the value of the deal could increase to £72million after add-ons.

However, it is understood that Barcelona are still refusing to pay the £14.2million owed to de Jong following the restructuring of his contract, leading to further uncertainty over where his future lies.

Manchester United have suffered a further setback in their pursuit as Spanish sources have claimed that the 25-year-old is only willing to join Chelsea if he leaves the Nou Camp ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline.

It was previously revealed that de Jong’s preference is to remain at Barcelona, while he would only consider a switch to a club competing in the Champions League if he is forced to move onto pastures new.

Jacobs believes Barcelona are giving out mixed messages over the availability of de Jong, who is equally confused with the start of the new season rapidly approaching.

The journalist understands the 44-cap Netherlands international is on the market despite Laporta’s claims to the contrary.

Jacobs told GIVEMESPORT: “Barcelona are