Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong as a possible replacement for Paul Pogba.
Pogba could be leaving Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the season. As per The Independent, he has been demanding a pay rise which would see him overtake Cristiano Ronaldo as the Premier League’s highest-paid player.
Could Frenkie de Jong leave Barcelona?
The Independent also reports that Frenkie de Jong may be a viable option to replace Pogba. They claim that Barca head coach Xavi hasn’t been “overwhelmingly impressed” with the 24-year-old, and he could look to offload the Dutch star to decrease the club’s wage bill.
De Jong still has five years on the contract he initially signed two years ago.
If the Manchester club were willing to pay the fee required, de Jong would likely be an excellent addition to their midfield. The versatile midfielder is renowned for his ability on the ball. In addition, he also has strong defensive and attacking prowess.
Manchester United or Manchester City?
However, Manchester City are also reportedly interested in the multi-talented Dutchman. Manager Pep Guardiola is a long term admirer of de Jong. Before the Dutchman signed for Barca, he received a call from the Citizens boss.
Reports from Spanish outlet El Nacional have even claimed that De Jong could be used in a player exchange deal to bring City’s Raheem Sterling to Camp Nou. They add, however, that the midfielder is “very happy” at Barca.
The blue side of Manchester has outperformed their neighbours throughout the season. However, this may not guarantee that de Jong would choose to play his football at the Etihad next season. United often win the battle when the two clubs go toe to toe for signings.
Read: How the threat of Manchester City has influenced Manchester United recruitment
Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane and Fred have all signed for the Salford-based club recently, despite reported interest from their neighbours. Although United have had an eight-year-long fall from grace, the history of the Theatre of Dreams is still too tempting for some to turn down.
Featured Image Credit: Getty
