Midfielder Frenkie de Jong has admitted that he always wanted to stay at Barcelona during the summer transfer window amid Manchester United's long-term interest in his signature.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News back in May, United quickly identified the Netherlands international as their top target to strengthen their respective midfield options. De Jong had worked with Reds manager Erik ten Hag at Ajax and the latter was keen for a reunion at Old Trafford.
United agreed a deal with Barcelona to sign De Jong at the end of June, reaching an agreement over an initial €65million (£56.14m) fee. However, the Reds were unable to advance with their quest to sign the 25-year-old because he was owed €17million in deferred wages.
