The Frenkie de Jong transfer saga remains ongoing and it's clear why Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag wants him so badly.
The Barcelona midfielder has been of interest to United for months, in what has been an arduous transfer saga for fans of the club. The two sides reached a deal in principle for the player more than two weeks ago, but since then little progress has been made.
Ten Hag has made no secret about the need for United to bring in reinforcements this summer and the reunion of De Jong and his former manager seems to be the perfect fit. The Eredivisie-winning duo achieved great success together during their time at Ajax and the two clearly have a great understanding both on and off the pitch.
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Ahead of the 2018/19 season that saw Ajax win the Dutch league, the United manager made an important realisation before the season began.
Speaking to dutchsoccersite at the time, Ten Hag said: “My analysis about last season was clear. We lacked balance in the squad, in that important age group of what I call the ‘middle’ category - players with experience, but also with desire.
“Frenkie is so important as a player.
“He became our conductor on the pitch, he determines the rhythm of the team. He takes care of the yield of the attacks, finds team mates, opens up spaces.
"His quality is that he makes the forwards perform better. He is a wanderer, an adventurer, he’s always on the move, like a shark. With the ball, often, but also without the ball."
It is clear to see how highly Ten Hag rates De Jong as a player. The pair have won multiple trophies together and fans of the Reds will be hoping that same success can be replicated at Old Trafford if a deal can be finalised ahead of the transfer window closing on September 1.
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