Man Utd set ‘deadline’ for De Jong transfer but ‘still feel a deal can be done’

Man Utd ‘still feel a deal can be done’ for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.

Widespread reports claimed Man Utd and Barcelona had come to an €85m agreement over the transfer of the Netherlands international but there are still stumbling blocks.

De Jong is still owed money in deferred bonuses and wages from during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic with the midfielder refusing to leave without sorting those payments.

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There has also been speculation that De Jong is not keen on a move to Man Utd and would prefer to stay at Barcelona this summer.

The Catalan giants have reportedly told him in a recent meeting that he must accept a pay cut of around 50 per cent or leave the club this summer.

However, Sheth claims that Man Utd remain confident they can get a deal over the line for De Jong but have set themselves a “deadline” before moving on to other targets.

Sheth said on Sky Sports: “Manchester United still feel a deal can be done for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

“For all the public utterances of Barcelona president Joan Laporta and head coach Xavi, Manchester United remain comfortable in their position with a broad agreement on the table worth £72m.

“United will have their own deadline on the deal as they have other targets if the De Jong deal proves too difficult to do.

“But for now, they are continuing to pursue the Dutch international. The feeling is all the obstacles are still on the Barcelona end with the issue of deferred wages unresolved.”

Ajax winger Antony was also strongly linked to Man Utd earlier in the window but the speculation has quietened down recently after a major gap in valuations.

There have been rumours that Ajax want as much as £80m for the Brazilian but Sheth insists that Man Utd are still interested.

Sheth added: “New Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has stated United want to strengthen in the forward line.

“Ajax forward Antony remains a player of interest. Initial talks between the clubs have highlighted a gap in valuations for the 22-year-old.”