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Former Manchester United manager Rene Meulensteen has urged the Red Devils to do everything they can to sign their long-term target Frenkie de Jong ahead of the summer transfer window.
The ex-Red Devils boss reckons the Barcelona star would help the Premier League giants fix their vulnerabilities in the middle of the pitch. It goes without saying that De Jong has been on United's radar for quite some time.
The Barcelona midfielder, 26, was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford last summer but ended up staying put at the Camp Nou instead.
During an interview with Manchester United Official Scandinavian Supporters Club, (via Metro), Meulensteen explained why the Red Devils need to go all out to snap up the Dutchman:
“They need a really good midfield player. Yes, they’ve got Casemiro in there. You’ve got Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes – a lot of experience, a lot of qualities – but there’s also a little bit of a vulnerability because their mindsets are predominantly in going forward. I would 100% do everything to get De Jong. He’s got energy, he’s got legs, he’s tactically very, very good in the build-up."
Similarly, former Red Devils defender Paul Parker also gave his green light to the club's pursuit of the 26-year-old midfielder. The Englishman explained why De Jong would be a perfect fit for the Premier League giants:
"I would love it if Manchester United signed De Jong. He is a different type of player than Casemiro, and he is quite agile on the ball. He would fit perfectly in Ten Hag's midfield. He's a great footballer, and he would make the team a lot better. De Jong would add a certain 'constancy' to the midfield, and in possession, he could add a lot to this United."
The Dutchman appears to be a popular target among United fans. It remains to be seen if he indeed arrives at Old Traffoed this summer.
Frenkie de Jong addresses Barcelona future amid resurging Manchester United links
Speaking via EsportsRAC1, Frenkie de Jong addressed his future at Barcelona once again. The midfielder pledged to continue plying his trade at the La Liga winners, despite rising reports linking him with a move away from the club.
“Last summer, I was always calm as I knew I would stay at Barca, and I never changed my mind," he said. “I always dreamed of playing for Barca, and I want to succeed here. I want to continue here” said De Jong.
This season, De Jong has made 39 appearances for Barcelona across competitions, recording two goals and three assists. It remains to be seen what the future has in store for him.
