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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Tom Blow

Xavi issues defiant message to Erik ten Hag after Man Utd make six-man transfer shortlist

Xavi believes Frenkie de Jong is "one of the best midfielders in the world right now" in a huge blow to Erik ten Hag's six-man transfer shortlist.

Manchester United manager Ten Hag tried to sign De Jong, 25, from Barcelona last summer but failed to agree personal terms with the player. It is believed Ten Hag is still interested in signing De Jong, yet Xavi's comments suggest he is going nowhere.

Barcelona boss Xavi praised the Netherlands international after his team's 1-0 victory at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday night. The result leaves Barcelona nine points clear of bitter rivals Real Madrid in the LaLiga title race, with "spectacular" De Jong flourishing.

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