It is now approaching ten weeks since Manchester United first opened discussions to sign Frenkie de Jong this summer, and still, he is a Barcelona player.
Despite the lengthy negotiations, United remain confident that they will be able to reach an agreement to bring De Jong to Old Trafford. Chief executive Richard Arnold and football director John Murtough have been in Barcelona this week as the club attempt to finalise the signing.
It is understood Arnold and Murtough met with Barcelona director of football Mateu Alemany, managing director Rafael Yuste and sporting adviser Jordi Cruyff in an attempt to conclude a deal for Erik ten Hag's priority target.
READ MORE: Murtough and Arnold in Barcelona to seal transfer
United have consistently insisted on a need for patience in their pursuit of the 25-year-old, with club sources reiterating that things could quickly gather pace as soon as the finances of a deal are established.
It hasn't quite been the case, though. United agreed a €55million fee with Barcelona to sign De Jong two weeks ago, but progress on the deal has been delayed by the wage deferral De Jong agreed to as part of a contract renewal during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.
In essence, De Jong took a pay cut to help the club out through the pandemic, on the proviso he would then earn that money back over the next couple of seasons—if he were to leave this summer, he would still, in theory, be owed the money he has yet to receive but is entitled to.
However, there is also one other factor to consider in all of this. Does De Jong really want to move to United this summer? The answer isn't so straightforward.
The Dutch international has spoken on record about how Barcelona have always been his "dream" club and he still feels he has a lot to offer in the years ahead. It is no secret that his preference would be to remain where he is and play a key role under Xavi next season, though the limelight is currently being occupied by youngsters Pedri and Gavi in his position.
The hard truth is that he is now viewed as dispensable by the Catalan giants, and the realisation that he is no longer a key part of their plans going forward is sure to impact his own relationship with the club.
While he might dream of a successful long-term future in Spain, the midfielder might well need to move for the good of his career, particularly given that his international boss, Louis van Gaal, has warned that any player not regularly turning out for their club is at risk of missing out on a World Cup call-up.
With United eager to buy and Barcelona happy to sell, the decision ultimately lies with De Jong. The fact that he isn't totally convinced by a move to Old Trafford should have the alarm bells ringing.
If not even the power of a reunion with mentor Ten Hag can sweeten the deal for the Dutchman, then there needs to be a moment of reflection from United about whether or not he really is the right fit for their summer rebuild.
There can be no denying the immense quality of the Barcelona midfielder as a new recruit, but it counts for nothing if his ability isn't matched by the right attitude and desire on the pitch.
De Jong might be 'de wrong' choice.
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