Barcelona have struck a deal with Manchester United over a possible transfer of Netherlands midfielder Frankie de Jong, who will still need to approve the move, a Spanish club man with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Thursday. Told.
United have agreed to pay Barcelona 75 million euros ($75 million) and another possible 10 million euros for 25-year-old de Jong, according to a club official who spoke under the condition of anonymity Because he was not authorized to speak publicly. about the deal.
De Jong, who is under contract with Barcelona through June 2026, will still need to agree to a transfer to the English Premier League side. As of now, he is reportedly reluctant to leave Camp Nou.
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But a Barcelona official with knowledge of the deal said coach Xavi Hernandez has told de Jong that he will not be an important part of his team. Barcelona would love to reach a definitive deal just before the team leaves on Saturday for a pre-season tour in the United States.
Barcelona is working to reduce its payroll as it seeks to reduce its debt. A club official said de Jong’s salary was no longer in line with his new financial priorities.
De Jong has made 140 appearances, mostly as a regular starter, since Barcelona bought him from Ajax in 2019 for 75 million euros (then $85.5 million).
Manchester United are currently taking part in pre-season training in Thailand. Ronaldo did not attend the practice session, citing “family problems”. Ronaldo has asked to leave United, who will play Europa League football next season, if the right offer comes in.
Manager Eric ten Haag has insisted star forward Ronaldo is in his plans for the season ahead and the 37-year-old Portuguese is not for sale.
“He is not with us and it is because of personal issues. I spoke to him before this issue came to the fore. I had a conversation with him and I had a good talk. It is between Cristiano and me, ”said the Dutch coach.
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