Manchester United fans are concerned that Erik ten Hag may not have a back-up plan if he cannot persuade Frenkie de Jong to join the club.
An agreement in principle has been agreed with Barcelona but negotiations have seemingly stalled since it emerged that the Spanish giants owe the player £17m in wages. The midfielder remains Ten Hag's priority.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News ahead of United ’s pre-season friendly with Crystal Palace in Australia, the new United boss revealed his midfield transfer strategy. He said: "We are looking for a player who can play in the holding midfield position but it has to be the right one.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag explains Manchester United's midfield transfer strategy amid Frenkie de Jong pursuit
"There are not many in that position capable of the level we demand. When we can’t find him, we have to deal with the players in our squad now and we will develop one in that position. 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."
Ten Hag ’s comments seem to indicate that he is still willing to pursue De Jong, who fits his style of play perfectly. United fans on Twitter are concerned that he might leave himself short if the midfielder does not end up at Old Trafford this summer.
@zeleLUHG: So the next option if we cant sign Frenkie is to play Mctominay?
@GixxerDan: I mean it's no surprise. They've never had a plan B. All eggs in the FDJ basket. Manager let down again.
@nanayhwcashes: So meaning it’s either De Jong or nobody. This crazy.
@UtdNed: Just dare to play McFred for one more season and there is going to be riots everywhere. Not acceptable!
@vedant2708: Woah! That means if we don’t get De Jong no one’s coming in as an alternate.
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