Manchester United fans are all drawing the same conclusion after Barcelona boss Xavi addressed the interest in Frenkie de Jong.
The Manchester Evening News revealed earlier this week that United have been in contact with the Catalan club over the availability of De Jong this summer. While a deal doesn’t look imminent, the Reds are looking to move swiftly in their search for a new midfielder.
De Jong of course previously worked with incoming United manager Erik ten Hag during their time at Ajax. Ten Hag is understood to have already reached out to the player’s agent, Ali Dursun, to gauge whether he would be receptive to an Old Trafford move.
ALSO READ: Manchester United latest on Frenkie de Jong, transfer plans and Erik ten Hag's coaching staff
Despite the interest, Xavi has insisted De Jong is still a key part of his plans. The Barca boss did concede though that the La Liga club’s precarious financial position could change matters.
“I have said many times that Frenkie is very important. He's a key player," the Barcelona manager stated at a press conference.
"Then there is also the financial situation of the club and it has to be decided. I'm not talking about Frenkie, in general."
Xavi’s comments have led United fans to reach the same conclusion – that, despite the Barcelona’s boss’ wishes, De Jong will be sold this summer. And with Ten Hag arriving at Old Trafford, many feel the ball might be in United’s court.
De Jong is contracted to Barcelona until 2026, although the Catalan club could be forced to cash-in on a number of players this summer due to the financial disarray at the club. Barca signed De Jong for £65million three years ago and, despite their debt of £1.2bn, would be reluctant to take a loss on the midfielder.
Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.
