Frenkie de Jong transfer latest: Man Utd handed major lift as star’s relationship with Xavi ‘breaks down’

Frenkie de Jong (21) of FC Barcelona during the Europa League match between FC Barcelona and SSC Napoli at Camp Nou Stadium

There has been another twist in the Frenkie de Jong to Manchester United transfer saga as reports claim his relationship with Barcelona boss Xavi has ‘broken down’.

In recent days, Barcelona have revealed just how much they want to keep De Jong. Club president Joan Laporta insists he is not for sale, despite them needing money and Manchester United offering upwards of £60million for the Dutchman.

The Red Devils’ hopes of landing De Jong were rekindled earlier on Monday, though.

According to Spanish outlet AS, Barca chiefs are ‘secretly working’ on his sale to improve their finances. This suggests Laporta is keeping a brave face when speaking to the media, but he knows how bad things are behind the scenes.

Mundo Deportivo, meanwhile, claim De Jong will be told he must he leave later on Monday.

The Daily Mirror add to these bombshell reports, while citing Diario AS. They state the relationship between De Jong and Xavi has ‘broken down’ recently.

The central midfielder doesn’t feel his coach trusts him, which is forcing him to consider a summer exit.

Things between De Jong and Xavi were never that rosy, but it is now awkward in the Barca dressing room as the pair are obviously in disagreement.

Frenkie de Jong nearing Man Utd move

This means Manchester United are now in a great position to end the transfer saga and finally bring the 25-year-old to the Theatre of Dreams.

United boss Erik ten Hag recently appeared at a press conference. He was asked about potential deals for De Jong and Christian Eriksen.

The coach said: “We want to add the right players. We have a really good squad, we are working to develop our way of playing.”

Why do Manchester United want Frenkie de Jong?

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?

This suggests United are in fact aiming to add De Jong to their squad. He would help to change their playing style and is admired by Ten Hag.

On their wider transfer aims, Ten Hag added: “We’re still looking for players in the midfield and in offence.”

The Dutchman also spoke about Cristiano Ronaldo’s future, amid rumours of a possible Chelsea switch.