The Frenkie de Jong transfer saga could yet take another twist.
Man United were initially the favourites to sign a player held in high regard by Erik ten Hag, but they still have not convinced the midfielder of the project at Old Trafford that the former Ajax manager will be leading. This is despite a £63million base fee being agreed between the two clubs all the way back in mid-July. With the deal being in stand-by for a while now, Chelsea had entered the fray as their 'hijack' mission commenced.
It is understood that the Blues would be a more attractive option to the 25-year-old than United due to the fact that Thomas Tuchel's side will be playing in the Champions League in 2022/23. However, it is well known that the Dutchman's preference overriding all of this transfer speculation is to stay put at his 'dream club' where he is currently undergoing a complicated contractual battle with the Barcelona higher-ups over deferred wages and back payments owed.
READ MORE: Frenkie de Jong to Chelsea latest: Direct talks, £71m fee, Man Utd hijack, Barcelona stance
Barca are hoping to cut ties with their 21-year-old before this issue became a real problem amid pressure from the likes of Gary Neville and others. As the Catalan giants scramble for new ideas to convince the Dutch international that his future is elsewhere, their interest in one Man City player could be crucial in turning the wheels on an exit for De Jong.
Barcelona are interested in making a move for Bernardo Silva should De Jong leave. And Cadena Cope, via the Mirror, have reported that Barcelona have been given 'green light' by Silva's agent Jorge Mendes to make their move for the Portugal international.
That signal from the player's agent could push Barcelona into action, with manager Xavi hoping that Silva would occupy the role currently taken by De Jong.
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