Manchester United transfer target Frenkie de Jong stepped off the bench in Barcelona's 6-0 win over Inter Miami and was forced to play at centre-back.
The Spanish heavyweights, who are doing all they can to keep hold of the Dutchman this summer, secured their first win of their pre-season schedule. New signing Raphinha, who joined the club from Leeds United last week, was the star of the show, grabbing a goal and two assists in the first-half.
Like most managers do in pre-season, Barcelona head coach Xavi made wholesale changes at half-time in a bid to give as many minutes as possible to every member of his squad. De Jong was among those who stepped off the bench at the break and he was forced to slot in at centre-back, helping form a back-three.
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Barcelona are not light on options in midfield, but former Manchester City man Ferran Torres slotted into the centre of midfield against Inter Miami, joining Sergio Busquets and youngster Gavi. That meant that De Jong was forced to play in a very unfamiliar role at the back.
Considering De Jong is regarded as a progressive midfielder that likes to get on the ball and play through the lines, it came as a surprise to those watching.
United registered their interest in De Jong more than two months ago and are yet to make the significant breakthrough they are longing for, despite agreeing a fee with Barcelona last month. The midfielder is owed £17million in deferred wages and that is holding up any hopes United have of getting a deal over the line.
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