Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has caught the attention of Man United ahead of the January transfer window.
Barcelona are preparing to spend their first transfer window under Xavi Hernandez this winter.
The Catalans are eying moves for several players. However, their financial issues have generated endless rumours around the potential departures of several of Barca’s key players.
According to El Nacional, Manchester United are ready to make a bid for Frenkie de Jong. The Spanish source claims the Red Devils will make the first offer of £47m for the Barcelona star.
Xavi is keen to keep De Jong at the club. However, he might accept the Dutchman’s departure as the Catalans are desperate to raise funds for another transfer.
The club are reportedly negotiating with Manchester City over the transfer of Ferran Torres. Selling De Jong will provide Barcelona with enough funds to sign the Spaniard.
According to The Mirror, new Man United boss Ralf Rangnick will have a budget of £100m for the January window. In case Barcelona reject United’s first offer, the Red Devils might even raise the bid for the Dutchman.
As Barcelona seek a way out of their financial problems, United are trying to find their rhythm under Rangnick. De Jong’s excellent pressing abilities would fit well within the German coach’s tactics.