Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Man Utd told why they must sign ‘one of the top two or three midfielders in the world’ Frenkie de Jong

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp believes Manchester United will be signing one of the ‘top two or three midfielders in the world’, if they can they can get a deal done for Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong.

Latest reports suggest Barca are looking to get tough with the Netherlands international by forcing him into a move to Old Trafford, despite the player himself telling teammates that he wants to stay.

Spanish outlets Sport and Mundo Deportivo both state that the Catalan giants have an agreement in place with United.

The long-touted move is now expected to hit the final stages. Indeed, Erik ten Hag is desperate to get his fellow countryman on board as quickly as possible to integrate him into his side.

And former Liverpool, Tottenham and England midfielder Redknapp thinks De Jong will be a tremendous acquisition.

He told Sky Sports: “I’d put him in the top two or three midfielders in the world. I think he’s an unbelievable signing.

“He went to Barcelona it didn’t quite work out, for a number of reasons. But it doesn’t mean he’s not an incredible player.

“He’s young, and having worked so closely with the manager at Ajax, he’ll play just in front of the back four and he’s the sort of player that’ll make things happen and drive with the ball.

“He’s so creative with his passing, got real pace as well, I think he’s going to be an amazing signing for them. I’m really excited about that for the Premier League.”

United just waiting on De Jong decision 

The report does add that the final decision will come down to the player. However, De Jong has still to green light the move, which is a worry for United.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano states that a fee is already agreed between the two clubs. All that remains now is for De Jong to say yes.

The player’s concerns are said to stem from the fact that he is more than happy in Catalonia. De Jong, meanwhile, is also concerned that an Old Trafford move will mean no Champions League football.

To that end, Old Trafford chiefs and Ten Hag, in particular, have some convincing to do in the coming days.

United are currently on tour in Australia and are due to face Melbourne Victory on Friday.

Further friendlies follow against Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, Atletico Madrid and Rayo Vallecano before the the Premier League campaign gets underway on August 7 at home to Brighton.

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