Barcelona have been slammed for their “mafia” treatment of Frenkie de Jong, who is the subject of a fresh approach from Manchester United.
Former Ajax star Rafael van der Vaart – who was capped 109 times by the Netherlands international team – ripped into the Blaugrana’s treatment of the central midfielder this summer, while claiming that Barca’s global image has now become “really bad”.
It comes amid a protracted saga over De Jong with both United and Chelsea pursuing a transfer. Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag recently instructed his side to remain patient on a deal after holding fresh talks with the player but the Blues are believed to be becoming increasingly confident of securing his signature.
