'You won't join Manchester United, correct?' - Frenkie de Jong responds to journalist's transfer question

Frenkie de Jong has reiterated he is very happy at Barcelona after he was asked about a possible move to Manchester United.

De Jong, 25, was earmarked as Erik ten Hag's priority signing during his first summer in charge at Old Trafford and United agreed a deal worth €85million with Barcelona for the player, yet he remained at Barcelona beyond the transfer window.

Although it's understood Ten Hag pushed hard to sign De Jong, who he coached at Ajax, he was eventually forced to look elsewhere in the market and that subsequently led to the arrival of Casemiro from Real Madrid.

ALSO READ: United player ratings vs Fulham as Martinez and De Gea good

De Jong's wage deferral at Barcelona, caused by the club's financial struggles after the pandemic, proved to be the stumbling block in talks, but Ten Hag has not closed the door on a fresh approach for the player at the end of the season.

After defeating Real Madrid at Camp Nou in La Liga on Sunday night, De Jong was asked to clarify his future yet again by a reporter from Ziggo Sport, who asked him: “You won’t join Manchester United in the summer, correct?”

De Jong replied: “No, I don't think so. You never know of course. But I'm very happy in Barcelona."

United are a more appealing club to join thanks to the progress Ten Hag has made this season. United are well positioned to qualify for the Champions League and the worst trophy drought at Old Trafford for over 40 years ended in February.

The Reds also remain in contention to win the Europa League and FA Cup this term, although Barcelona are on track for their first La Liga title in four years, while De Jong has become a regular starter again after briefly losing his place.

READ NEXT

Erik ten Hag sends message to Martial