It is now 67 days since the Manchester Evening News revealed that Manchester United had made initial contact with Barcelona about the availably of midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
Erik ten Hag, who has overseen two victories from his first pre-season two matches in charge as United manager, had identified the Netherlands international as one of his top targets to strengthen his midfield options. More than two months on, the former Ajax manager is still yet to be reunited with one of his former sons.
United, as reported by the Manchester Evening News at the end of last month, have reached an agreement in principle with Barcelona to sign De Jong for £56.14million. However, the deal is being held up at the Barcelona end because of £17million in deferred wages that the Dutchman is owed. United are not to blame for the hold up.
