Speaking on the Que Golazo Podcast, Fabrizio Romano has been discussing Frenkie De Jong’s future amid links to both Liverpool and Manchester United.
De Jong looks as though he could be on the move this summer, and with Barcelona potentially spending big on the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, they need to sell some players to balance the books.
De Jong is a logical player to offload. Gavi and Pedri have emerged as new midfield options this season, while Franck Kessie is also set to arrive in the summer.
The Dutchman could be set for a big-money transfer, and a move to Old Trafford has been touted. Although, according to Romano, there’s an issue.
Indeed, the journalist says that De Jong is keen to play Champions League football next season, and that’s not something United can offer right now.
What’s been said?
Romano spoke about De Jong’s future.
“Xavi and De Jong know that the financial situation with Barcelona isn’t an easy one. They’re working on many new signings, but you have to sell some players at some point because the financial situation isn’t easy. So, what is the situation at the moment? Barcelona, they want an important bid to get rid of De Jong that means €80-€85m. Let’s see what happens with Manchester United, he is for sure in Erik ten Hag’s list, but there is a key point, I’m told, on the players’ side, he wants to play Champions League football next season, and with Manchester United, this is an issue,” Romano said.
Liverpool’s chance
Manchester United aren’t the only English club to be linked with De Jong, Liverpool have also been credited with an interest, and this update could play into their hands.
According to Romano, Liverpool are in the market for a big name midfielder this summer, and unlike United, they can offer De Jong Champions League football.
Actually, they can offer De Jong a lot more than just Champions League football, they can offer him the chance to contend in the latter stages of that very competition.
Indeed, Liverpool are one of Europe’s best sides, reaching three of the last five Champions League finals, and that could also play a massive part in attracting the Dutchman to Anfield instead of Old Trafford.
This is certainly a situation worth keeping an eye on.
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