Chelsea's confidence had increased over the Frenkie de Jong deal but the reality is Thomas Tuchel's side could end the summer transfer window without another option recruited in the centre of the park.
Before links to De Jong had emerged, various midfielders across the European scene were tentatively linked to Stamford Bridge with Matheus Nunes the main option in the early stages of the window. Youri Tielemans could become an option if certain things were to unfold against the Blues in the last three weeks.
Initial indications are that negative news could be on its way with Man United having renewed 'confidence' that they will make real progress with bringing Barca's number 21 to Old Trafford next week. Some reports in Spain are even indicating that manager Erik ten Hag may meet face-to-face with his Dutch compatriot soon. Other reports state that the 25-year-old has told his teammates that he will move to Manchester if he was forced out eventually towards the back end of the window.
