Manchester United’s dream summer signing, Frenkie de Jong, will continue to be seen as central to the way manager Erik ten Hag wants his team to play, according to reports.
Despite United beefing up their midfield department with new signings over the summer, De Jong is still seen as the man for the Red Devils.
As Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth reports, “Completing deals for other midfielders over the summer doesn’t necessarily mean De Jong is gone.”
The Dutchman, who was heavily linked with a move to England in summer drama, was wanted by both United and Chelsea but neither club was able to close the deal.
And with de Jong’s Barcelona manager Xavi playing regularly with the midfielder, it seems the decision to stay at the Camp Nou was for the best, at least for now.
But as Sheth goes on to describe the Dutch international as a “unique type of player”, stating that “Ten Hag still sees his former Ajax student as central to what he wants to achieve at Old Trafford.”
The United manager spent around £70m to bring in Brazilian midfielder Casemiro from Real Madrid, whom he described as “the cement between the bricks”.
Also joining the Reds was Christian Eriksen, who arrived on a free transfer, but the 25-year-old Barca man was always the main target.
De Jong was also thought to be reluctant to leave for a non-Champions League club, which will no doubt be among the Old Trafford club’s highest immediate priorities.
But with Barcelona’s widely reported financial difficulties underway, it seemed the Catalan club were ready to part with their man.
Deferred wages of £17m reported by the Dutchman were the main obstacle to an agreed £63m move, which appeared to have been agreed.
United hope the player and his club can agree on these terms for the transfer to take place next summer. 
United Matchday Magazine – The Ultimate Match Experience Confidence is high. The fans are buzzing. United are once again a force and on Sunday they will show it.
Get ready for the derby and enjoy articles, quizzes, riddles, nostalgia and humor Online football content like you’ve never seen it before No ads, no clickbait, no fake news – just 100% pure United Delivered instantly to your device the way you want. easy and secure online ordering Click Preview to see more or GET YOUR FREE COPY (usually £1.25 / $1.50) Limited Time Offer: SAVE 33% on a Season Pass – Use discount code SEASON33 at checkout purchase.
