Gary Lineker has criticised Barcelona for treating Frenkie de Jong like a "piece of meat" amid ongoing uncertainty over his future.
De Jong is the subject of a fresh approach from Manchester United while Barca's treatment of him – demanding he reduce his salary by half or leave the club – has been slammed as like the "mafia" by former Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart.
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.
