Romano reveals Man Utd have ‘opened direct talks’ over Barca star with price set at €85m

Man Utd have “opened direct talks” with Barcelona over a potential deal for Frenkie de Jong, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Netherlands international has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford since it was rumoured that Erik ten Hag would become the Premier League club’s new permanent manager.

Ten Hag was confirmed as Man Utd boss last month and now the reports of interest in De Jong – who played in 32 of Barcelona’s 38 La Liga matches this term – continue to grow.

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A report in Spanish publication Sport claimed yesterday that Man Utd will ‘gladly pay’ the asking price for De Jong but it’s the Dutchman’s reservations about the move, particularly now the Red Devils aren’t in the Champions League, which could scupper any deal.

Romano acknowledged this in his tweet on Wednesday with De Jong apparently ‘still not convinced to leave Barca and he wants UCL football’ next campaign with Man Utd unable to provide that.

The reliable Italian journalist also insists that Man Utd ‘have opened direct talks’ with Barcelona over De Jong with his set price tag set at around €85m.

Man Utd have not made an official bid yet but Romano continues by saying that the Red Devils ‘will try to push again as Barca need to solve financial issues’ despite De Jong’s doubts.

Manchester United have opened direct talks with Barça for Frenkie de Jong. Price tag around €85m, waiting for opening bid. #MUFC

De Jong is still not convinced to leave Barça and he wants UCL football – Man Utd will try to push again as Barça need to solve financial issues. pic.twitter.com/jT18D37sPK

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 1, 2022

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