David Ornstein issues update on Frenkie de Jong to Manchester United transfer
Manchester United’s pursuit of Frenkie de Jong continues to stymie the rest of the club’s summer business.
Manchester United were in talks with Barcelona about a transfer move, according to BBC Sport. The transaction does not appear to be getting any closer.
Journalist David Ornstein provided an update via The Athletic Football Podcast, saying there is a good probability the deal will be completed.
Ornstein explained: “Depending on who you speak to, there is a expectation that it will eventually get done and it’s a game of poker with Barça who needs to raise funds but don’t want to relinquish their best player or show their hand. They want to rinse [them] for as much money as possible versus United who are staying calm.”
Manchester United must accept that they may have to pay more than they would want to acquire Frenkie de Jong.
At a position where Manchester United is lacking, De Jong is the top target identified by new manager Erik ten Hag.
United will have to bite the bullet with this agreement impeding the remainder of the club’s transfer activities.
Pressure is mounting on United, with City, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Arsenal all completing deals, and Gary Neville this week stated that he is ‘worried’ about the club’s present inactivity.
The more pressure that builds, the weaker United’s poker hand becomes, because selling clubs will see the increasing pressure and act accordingly.
It is a risky game for Manchester United to play because the club cannot afford to have a bad transfer window this summer.
Last season, the team had its lowest-ever Premier League point total, and they have just hired a highly rated new manager, who will need to be supported by his top targets.
If that means paying a little more than usual, so be it. United has a very weak hand and cannot afford to make any mistakes.
Even the timing of signings is important. Ten Hag would prefer to have as many as feasible before the pre-season trip. So yet, United has showed no signs of being able to deliver.
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David Ornstein issues update on Frenkie de Jong to Manchester United transfer
