Manchester United transfer chiefs Richard Arnold and John Murtough have flown back to the UK after concluding talks with Barcelona over a move for Frenkie de Jong.
The United CEO and football director had met with their Barcelona counterparts and are thought to have agreed on a financial package for the Dutch midfielder, who Erik ten Hag has made his number one target since taking over at Old Trafford this summer. But after agreeing a fee for the player, Arnold and Murtough suffered the embarrassment of having to fly home empty-handed – with De Jong yet to agree to the move.
It comes as the Red Devils have ignored Darren Fletcher's transfer advice, meaning they will miss out on a defender tipped to become a £100million star. And Juan Mata could incur the wrath of Manchester United fans after being offered a contract by one of their biggest rivals.
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De Jong talks conclude
Manchester United's transfer delegation have concluded talks which have spanned several days with Barcelona over their bod to bring in Frenkie de Jong.
United CEO Richard Arnold and football director John Murtough were seen meeting with Barcelona club president Joan Laporta, alongside the club's transfer officials Mateu Alemany, Jordi Cruyff and Rafa Yuste – at the Via Veneto restaurant last Thursday. They are understood to have stayed in the Catalan capital for a further few days to hash out the finer details of their offer for De Jong.
But despite making progress with the Spanish club, De Jong himself is yet to give the transfer his seal of approval.
Fletcher's transfer advice ignored
Manchester United ignored the advice of technical director Darren Fletcher and decided not to try and sign Nathan Collins.
The former Stoke City defender was available for just £15m 12 months ago, with Fletcher having had an inside glimpse at the defender during his time at the bet365 Stadium. United chose not to bid for the 21-year-old then, and they chose to pass yet again this summer after he secured a £20.5million move from relegated Burnley to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
It comes as ex-footballer Roddy Collins has shared his view on the defender, who he expects to eventually cost more than £100m – which would be sure to leave United kicking themselves at not taking Fletcher's advice.
Mata risks wrath of fans
Juan Mata could incur the wrath of Manchester United fans after his latest contract offer.
The Spaniard left the Old Trafford outfit this summer after eight years with the club and is now on the lookout for new employers. And according to reports, United's bitter rivals Leeds United want to bring the midfielder in and have offered him a contract.
The clubs share a fierce rivalry, and while Mata is understood to have had offers from across Europe, United fans would no doubt be upset to see him join the Elland Road side.
