Frenkie de Jong latest: ‘Huge tension’ as Barcelona team-mates react to latest ploy over Man Utd target

There is huge unease on all sides of the Frenkie de Jong transfer saga after Barcelona’s latest ploy over the Manchester United target, a report says.

The Red Devils have been chasing the Netherlands midfielder for a number of weeks but so far to no avail. Cash-strapped Barcelona have continued to make signings and so view De Jong as their most saleable asset.

United are also pushing to seal a deal for the 25-year-old following the agreement of an initial £63million transfer fee.

But De Jong has continued to insist that he does not want to move to United. While he could be open to other offers, he does not feel a move to Old Trafford is for him.

And amid United chiefs consistently trying to sort personal terms, De Jong’s agents reportedly turned on the club’s representatives earlier this week.

The Independent subsequently quotes sources, who reveal there is “huge tension” among all parties involved in the talks.

And Barcelona’s latest ploy has only heightened the ill-feeling. They have now ‘directly’ told De Jong that he must go to help them solve their financial woes.

The La Liga side cannot register signings such as Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen until they make a big sale.

De Jong, Man Utd transfer twist

Barcelona’s players have inevitably got wind of the unfolding situation with one of the star players in their squad.

The Independent claims that some in the team feel the club are treating De Jong unfairly.

United, for their part, are just trying to convince they are right for him without adding to the pressure on his situation.

And new United boss Erik ten Hag reportedly believes the midfielder is almost unique following their successful link-up at Ajax.

Barcelona stance speaks volumes

While Man Utd are attracting unwanted attention for the length of their De Jong saga, it is Barcelona who are starting to make most of the headlines.

United have done their part in agreeing the fee and are now trying to agree personal terms.

But, as reports claim, Barcelona want De Jong off their wage bill and have now directly told him that he must go.

Why do Manchester United want Frenkie de Jong?

Why do Manchester United want Frenkie de Jong when the player seemingly doesn't want a move to Old Trafford?

The fact that he is owed €17million in deferred wages is another reason why he wants to stay.

All parties need to resolve the situation as soon as possible, but it does not look like a resolution is near.