Manchester United are 'close' to agreeing a deal with Spanish giants Barcelona to bring midfielder Frenkie de Jong to Old Trafford.
That is according to a report by Spanish outlet Sport, who claim that United are nearing an agreement with the Spanish giants to sign the Netherlands international. United identified De Jong as a target last month and are keen to add him to Erik ten Hag's squad this summer.
De Jong worked with Ten Hag during his time at Ajax, where he blossomed into the midfielder he is today. Ten Hag got a consistent tune out of the midfielder and has already reached out to his agent in a bid to be reunited with him at Old Trafford.
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Although United want to strengthen several areas of their squad this summer, the midfield is set to be their leading priority. They are crying out for a defensive-minded midfielder and are keen on sourcing a box-to-box-type player, such as De Jong.
According to the report, United are looking to wrap up a deal for the 25-year-old, who netted four goals and grabbed five assists this season, for £68.7million. United's lack of Champions League football for next season, however, could prove to be a stumbling block.
Barcelona have qualified for the competition next season, but United have been summoned to Europa League football after finishing a disappointing sixth in the Premier League table.
Meanwhile, United have been handed a welcome boost in their pursuit of Villarreal star Arnaut Danjuma, according to a report by the Daily Express, as cited by the Sunderland Echo. It is claimed that Newcastle United have pulled out of the race to sign the Dutchman.
The versatile forward, who enjoyed a stellar first campaign in Spain this season, scoring 16 goals and grabbing four assists, is attracting a wealth of interest ahead of the transfer window officially opening later this month. The likes of United, Liverpool and Newcastle have all been heavily linked with his signature.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News, United are understood to be keeping a watchful eye on the former Bournemouth star. He has a €45million (£38.6m) release clause in his contract that can be activated this summer.
And if reports about Newcastle pulling out of the race are to be believed, it appears as though United have one less rival in the battle to sign him. However, Liverpool remain in the hunt.
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