Former centre-back Rio Ferdinand has welcomed Manchester United's interest in signing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, insisting he would tick boxes that that United need filling.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News , United are weighing up a £75million move for the Dutchman ahead of this forthcoming summer's transfer window. Incoming boss Erik ten Hag is keen to put his own stamp on the squad and De Jong is amongst his first targets.
The duo worked together at Ajax, meaning they know each other inside out. De Jong, who turned 25 on Thursday, left the Dutch giants in the summer of 2019 to join Barcelona.
READ MORE: Lionel Messi has delivered his verdict on Frenkie de Jong amid Manchester United transfer interest
He has made steady progress at the La Liga heavyweights and has found himself central to manager Xavi's plans in recent months. He has made a total of 45 appearances this season and chipped in with four goals and five assists.
Unsurprisingly, he is attracting interest ahead of the summer window opening for business and United are amongst his suitors. Should the Reds be successful in their efforts to lure him to Old Trafford, it would earn the tick of approval from Ferdinand, who has detailed just how big a fan he is of the central-midfielder.
"I've always thought he was a top player," Ferdinand told Vibe with Five. "I watched him closely in the Champions League semi-final year, I got to see a lot of him as part of the BT team.
"They're saying Frenkie de Jong could be the first player to come in under Erik ten Hag and I would be saying 'yes, great signing'. He's not huge in terms of frame but he is quick with the ball, really good dribbler, can get out of tight situations, makes good decisions, good passer, his balance and dribbling ability are really good.
"[Man United] are a team who are looking for players who can control the ball and control the game and get the team functioning in terms of balance and possession, I think he would be a good addition. He's not a player who scores loads of goals like Bruno Fernandes, but he's more about dictating the game.
"He gives you much more other elements in the game that United need."
On United's need to bolster their midfield options, Ferdinand continued: "This season United are definitely losing Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata - so United do need reinforcements and I think he would be a fantastic signing if this deal goes ahead. His [De Jong's] relationship with Ten Hag - he thrived under his management while he was at Ajax.
"For me he was the outstanding player in that team. He was integral in what they did. He's been to a big club in Barcelona and done okay there.
"It's hard to play under big expectations where you've got to win. He won't have that pressure at Man United right now but he could be part of the rebuild under Ten Hag.
"It would be smart to bring in someone he knows and trusts and believes he can go on and do big things in a team he believes in."
Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.
