Gary Neville has made a joke about Manchester United’s pursuit of Frenkie de Jong amid new reports claiming the player is adamant he doesn’t want a transfer.
The Netherlands international is still Erik ten Hag’s top summer target, despite the midfielder underlining that his preference is to stay at Barcelona. A deal in principle has been agreed with the Spanish giants but that is now looking increasingly insignificant.
Barcelona are understood to be yet to pay De Jong the wages owed to him upon a Covid-19 wage deferment agreement. He is currently away with Barca on their pre-season tour in the USA.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag issues transfer message to Manchester United board
And now, further reports are emerging that may stunt United’ s pursuit even more. It was claimed on Thursday that De Jong does not want a move to Manchester due to a ‘dislike’ of the city. It is also said he believes United are run ‘erratically’.
Neville reacted comically to the rumours on Twitter, writing: "But apart from that he’s desperate to come". There seems to be a general feeling of frustration amongst fans about their club’s chase of De Jong, with some desperate for them to pursue other targets.
Speaking about his transfer policy regarding a defensive midfielder earlier this week, Ten Hag said: "We are looking for a player who can play in the holding midfield position but it has to be the right one. I will not react on a certain player.
“We need the right player. We have a list and we qualify as the player who has the competence to play that role. We will strike the moment the player is available."
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