Frenkie de Jong admits he is ‘flattered’ by interest from Manchester United, as the Premier League side pursue a deal for the Barcelona midfielder.
De Jong has emerged as the Red Devils leading transfer target this summer, with Erik ten Hag keen on a reunion with the 25-year-old after working with the midfielder at Ajax.
Barcelona are understood to be open to allowing De Jong to leave in a bid to raise funds this summer and the Dutch international admits he is ‘flattered’ to hear of interest from Old Trafford.
“You’re always flattered when teams show interest in you as a player,” he said after the Netherlands 3-2 win over Wales.
“But, as you say, I am at the biggest club in the world at the moment and I feel fine there, so no news.”
Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on negotiations between the two clubs, with Barcelona holding out for a guaranteed fee of €85m for De Jong.
United have seen an opening offer of €60m plus a further €10m in add-ons rejected and will consider alternative targets should Barcelona’s stance not soften.
Still no changes on Frenkie de Jong deal. Barcelona won’t accept less than €85m guaranteed fee. Man Utd still in direct talks with Barça after verbal bid [€60m & €10m add-ons] turned down last week. 🇳🇱 #MUFC
Frenkie’s calm, no indication to anyone on his future. He’s waiting. pic.twitter.com/Z2wEEN2ieR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 14, 2022
De Jong had been dubious over leaving Barcelona for a side without Champions League football, but is now understood to be open to the prospect of a move to Manchester.
He previously excelled under Ten Hag at Ajax, starring in the side that reached the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2018/19 before his €75m move to the Camp Nou.