Not De Jong – Manchester United now want another Barcelona midfielder

Manchester United have long been linked with Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who’s expected to be on their radar in the summer transfer window as well. But now it’s being reported that the Premier League outfit have set their sights on one more midfielder at Camp Nou.

With De Jong now more or less an established cog in Xavi’s midfield, Franck Kessié has had to wait for his opportunity. The summer arrival from AC Milan has remained patient so far and there has been no indication from his camp that he wants to depart despite limited minutes.

But Barca’s financial situation combined with the abundance of options in midfield at the manager’s disposal could end up playing a big part in the Ivorian’s future at the end of the season.

It is claimed by Mundo Deportivo (via Sport Witness) that three Premier League clubs, including United, are interested in Kessié.

Not De Jong – Manchester United want another Barcelona midfielder

Ten Hag has been determined to reunite with De Jong since he swapped Ajax for United, but now he wants to ‘finish propping up the midfield’ irrespective of what the Netherlands international decides come the end of the season.

Former Real Madrid star Casemiro has fitted like a glove in Manchester, showing his prowess against old foe Barcelona over the two legs in the Europa League playoffs. But the Premier League giants have struggled to find an ideal partner for the Brazilian all season.

It is understood that Kessié is one of the players that ‘would fit’ in Ten Hag’s plans. During the Europa League outing, he matched United’s physicality well and made some promising runs into the box.

From a financial point of view, Kessié’s departure for a reasonable fee would be good for Barcelona considering he joined the club for nothing.