Manchester United remain ‘relaxed’ over their pursuit of Frenkie de Jong despite claims Barcelona will not sell the Netherlands international this summer.
The 25-year-old is Erik ten Hag’s top transfer target with United making talks to bring him to Old Trafford a top priority.
The club have already invested a considerable amount of time into negotiating a deal for the former Ajax starlet and while de Jong’s initial preference was to remain at the Camp Nou, ten Hag’s presence in Manchester has left United confident of prising him away.
The transfer saga took another twist when Barcelona president Joan Laporta insisted on Saturday he would do everything in his power to keep the midfielder – providing he agrees to take a pay cut.
‘Frenkie is considered as one of the best midfielders in the world by all the experts. We are happy to have him,’ Laporta said.
‘I’m going to do everything I can in my power so that Frenkie stays here, but there’s also a salary issue and that would have to be adjusted.’
United however are unconcerned by Laporta’s comments, however.
The Daily Telegraph report United ‘remain relaxed abut their pursuit’ of de Jong with their position that talks are still ‘productive and ongoing’ with Barcelona.
Recent reports this week have claimed United have made a breakthrough in their bid to sign de Jong and are on the brink of agreeing a £68m deal.
The deal will include £13m of achievable add-ons, with United paying £55m upfront.
Elsewhere, United are expected to confirm the arrival of Feyenoord left-back Tyrell Malacia next week with the 22-year-old undergoing a medical today.
MORE : Manchester United tell Cristiano Ronaldo he won’t be sold this summer
MORE : Bernardo Silva tells agent he wants Barcelona move but deal will hinge on Frenkie de Jong joining Manchester United
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