Manchester United have been informed that Frenkie de Jong would 'rather sign for Chelsea' as ex-Premier League manager Harry Redknapp lifted the lid on a conversation he had with a key figure involved in that prospective move from Barcelona.
De Jong, 25, remains a priority target for Erik ten Hag after United snapped-up Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez earlier in the summer. Their ongoing push for De Jong has not been plain-sailing, though, despite the clubs agreeing a deal in principle.
United are frustrated by the delays and talks over the Netherlands international date back three months. Deferred wages owed to the player are understood to have caused the stumbling block, while Chelsea have since emerged as rivals for the player's signature.
READ MORE: United frustrated by De Jong delay
Speaking about De Jong to The Byline, ex-Premier League manager Redknapp said: "It looks like De Jong wants to go to Chelsea. I know that for a fact, he wants to go to Chelsea.
"United are not going to get him. I've had that from somebody right at the very, very, very top at United he's made up [his mind] and he really wants to go to Chelsea.
"If he goes to Chelsea and United don't get him, I don't know where they're going and if Chelsea get him obviously he'll be a fantastic signing for them."
De Jong progressed through the famed Ajax system and was coached by Ten Hag for 18 months as he emerged on the European stage. He signed for Barcelona in an €86million transfer three years ago.
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