The Frenkie de Jong Manchester United deal is taking its time, as it usually does with the Red Devils. The midfielder is still Manchester United’s main transfer target this summer, with sources indicating a move to Old Trafford is now appealing for the Dutchman. Manchester United have also been linked with Benfica’s Darwin Nunez.
Why the Frenkie de Jong Manchester United Deal Is Being Delayed
The Big Issues
Good win at home💙❤️ pic.twitter.com/0QLLiHaP2h
— Frenkie de Jong (@DeJongFrenkie21) May 2, 2022
The first big issue for Erik ten Hag and his staff was convincing de Jong to join Manchester United. The Red Devils finished sixth in the Premier League last season and the prospect of no Champions League football was a big turn-away for Frenkie de Jong. The Dutchman has now given private indication that a move appeals, almost definitely due to the voice of new manager Erik ten Hag. Barcelona manager, Xavi, has admitted his sale is inevitable.
The second big, and ongoing, issue is the fee. It was claimed this week that Barcelona need €500 million to save the club. Good for United because they need to sell, bad because they want an over-the-top fee. Manchester United aren’t unfamiliar with ridiculous transfer fees. In the past; Paul Pogba, Harry Maguire, Romelu Lukaku, and Angel Di Maria, just to name a few. However, under a new structure after Richard Arnold took charge from Ed Woodward, United have promised to spend the Glazer’s money more prudently. Barcelona want €80 million for their 25-year-old midfielder, but Manchester United’s valuation is lower.
The Transfer Structure at Old Trafford
Manchester United recently made a positive step in transferring responsibility to an individual with a sporting background. Woodward’s replacement, Arnold, has provided John Murtough with a heightened role at Old Trafford. United fans will be hoping that Murtough’s run as football director – with a greater impact than under previous management – will be more successful, both on and off the pitch.
John Murtough as football director will work alongside Erik ten Hag, assistant football director Andy O’Boyle and technical director Darren Fletcher to decide on transfers this summer. Andy O’Boyle was recently appointed and is expected to lighten the load internally at Carrington, overseeing many of the administration tasks. Darren Fletcher will not hold talks over signings, but instead, provide a clinical eye on players. His exact role is still unknown after spending time with Ralf Rangnick in the dugout and coaching sessions.
