Erik ten Hag 'starting to get frustrated' with Manchester United's pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong: Reports

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is reportedly becoming frustrated with the club's long-drawn pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

The United boss appears to have held up his end of the bargain by convincing the Dutch midfielder to join him at Old Trafford.

Mirror reports that the former Ajax manager's "charm offensive" has paid off with De Jong now open to moving to the Red Devils. They have collaborated previously during their time at Ajax and the Dutch manager is looking for the same at Old Trafford.

However, Manchester United are yet to agree on a fee with Barcelona for the midfielder, which is reportedly frustrating Ten Hag.

According to The Athletic, the United manager is "starting to get frustrated" with the transfer saga that has been ongoing for a number of weeks.

The Red Devils are reportedly operating on a budget of around £120 million. The Dutchman is well aware of the obstacles the side face in their transfer operations.

However, the United boss wants the signing of De Jong wrapped up quickly so he can look at other targets.

Fabrizio Romano reports that Barcelona want €85 million for their midfielder and the two sides remain in negotiations.

De Jong made 46 appearances for Barcelona last season, scoring four goals and contributing five assists.

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Erik ten Hag's frustrations over Manchester United's pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong is understandable

Erik ten Hag is eager to reunite with his former Ajax star

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag knows Frenkie de Jong very well from his time managing the Dutch midfielder at Ajax.

The two enjoyed success working with one another, winning the Eredivisie title and the KNVB Cup and making it to the semi-finals of the Champions League.

With Ten Hag eager to reunite with his former midfielder, it is merited that he becomes agitated by United's lack of progress on the potential deal.

Although Manchester United have been criticised for paying over-the-odds for talent in recent windows, De Jong is perhaps an anomaly given the circumstances.

Ten Hag has just taken over at Old Trafford and has a clear plan for the rebuild of the United side.

De Jong is his prime target and therefore with the Red Devils taking their time over the deal its leaving other potential targets at risk of slipping away.

The Dutch coach is looking to reinforce a number of areas in the Manchester United squad, including midfield.

Hence, the club will need to quickly get a deal over the line for De Jong with pre-season on the horizon.