Multiple reports from publications including De Telegraaf and Sport have revealed that Manchester United officials are set to travel to Barcelona in order to make one final push to convince Frenkie de Jong of a move to the North of England. It is also suggested that Erik ten Hag convinced the Old Trafford hierarchy to loosen to purse strings so that this deal could be completed, with De Jong being a perfect potential partner for Casemiro.
The Athletic confirms that the Red Devils agreed with Barcelona on a fee for the 25-year-old’s signature back in July, which they claim to be around £72 million (€85 million).
Manchester United Officials to Travel to Try and Sign Frenkie de Jong – He’d Be a Perfect Partner for Casemiro
Why a Midfield of Casemiro and Frenkie de Jong Would Work So Well
The pair, who were both playing their football for rival La Liga teams last season, could work seamlessly together in Erik ten Hag’s new Manchester United midfield.
Casemiro is known to be an excellent defensive midfielder, with the ability to break up play and lay the ball off to other, more creative players. That is not to say that the Brazilian is not himself able to pick a pinpoint pass, though.
De Jong, on the other hand, likes to receive the ball deep, and bring it forwards before playing it to more offensive players.
Erik ten Hag on decisions: “I don't have to mention Maguire, Ronaldo… they will play a role in the future”. 🔴 #MUFC
“We said we want to bring the right players in, the window is not closed and you need not only numbers, but quality”, told Sky via @utdreport. pic.twitter.com/hJMR0j6SXM
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 22, 2022
It makes perfect sense, then, for the two to play together as a double pivot in the middle of the midfield. Casemiro could recover possession, and then give it to his midfield partner to do the rest of the work in effectively building United’s attacks.
Furthermore, Casemiro’s defensive nature would free up De Jong to make driving runs into the opposition’s half without the risk that it would leave his defence exposed and unprotected.
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