Another summer, another prolonged Manchester United chase for their top midfield target.
We're not quite at the desperate, infuriating stage last summer's chase for Frenkie de Jong descended into but fans would be forgiven for experiencing uncomfortable flashbacks as United endeavour to sign Mason Mount. This deal looks much likelier to go through but it's now three bids that Chelsea have rejected and there was once a time when it looked as though De Jong would eventually arrive at Old Trafford, too.
Erik ten Hag immediately identified the Barcelona maestro as his top midfield target, believing the player he enjoyed so much success with at Ajax would help implement his style of football at United much quicker. A cash-strapped Barcelona were desperate to raise funds and accepted the club's bid; a player so unwanted by his team would surely jump at the chance to work with his former coach, right?
