Manchester United have reportedly assured Frenkie de Jong of a main promise upon his transfer.
The Manchester Evening News understands that a deal in principle for the midfielder has been agreed with Barcelona. Reports claim Chelsea are eyeing a potential late swoop should a United move fall through, albeit clarify that there should be no further bumps in the road.
He is Ten Hag's primary target with a restock of the midfield in his sights. Ten Hag is expected to oversee a long-term project and now Sport claims he has told De Jong he wants him to be an integral part of it.
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The outlet says the Dutch coach has ‘promised’ De Jong that he will be a ‘key player’ in his rebuild. It says De Jong will be the main asset in midfield as Ten Hag builds a team around him.
Meanwhile, Eric Bailly reportedly wishes to fight for his place at Old Trafford despite being fourth-choice centre-back. The Ivorian is considered to be behind Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof in the pecking order with Ten Hag hoping to bring in a new centre-half.
The Athletic states Fulham are interested in Bailly, but the player himself wants to stay on to try and impress his new United boss. Meanwhile, other clubs are considering a move for outcast Phil Jones, who is beneath Bailly in the selection list.
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