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Barcelona and Chelsea are reportedly close to agreeing a deal for Frenkie de Jong, according to a report in Diario Sport. The Dutchman is yet to decide his future, but the Catalan side are pushing for his exit.
The report claims that the Catalans are looking at a deal in excess of €80 million – a figure Manchester United agreed to pay.
However, the midfielder has not agreed personal terms with the Red Devils and is keen to stay at Camp Nou.
Chelsea are willing to reach an agreement with Barca, but are waiting for De Jong's green signal before presenting the bid.
Barca reportedly want him off their books this week before the season starts. The La Liga side have signed Franck Kessie, Andreas Christensen, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Jules Kounde this summer. They want to register the new signings, but are arguably unable to do so without De Jong leaving. As per reports, the Catalans owe the Dutchman €17 million in deferred wages.
United agreed a deal with Barcelona for Chelsea target
Sport also reported that Manchester United had a deal in place for Frenkie de Jong in July. However, the Dutchman has insisted on staying at Barcelona and fighting for his place.
Speaking to Dutch newspaper De Stentor earlier this summer, the Barca midfielder said:
"Have I been called? I can't say anything about that, but I prefer to stay at Barcelona. Of course I get that too. But I have not heard anything from the club management, so I assume that there is nothing concrete, or that an agreement has already been reached. Then it doesn't make much sense to worry about that."
United boss Erik ten Hag was quizzed about the possible move. However, he refused to mention the Dutchman's name. He was quoted by the The Mirror saying:
"We're looking for a player who can play in the holding midfield position, but it has to be the right one. There are not many in that position capable of the level we demand. When we can't find him, we have to deal with the players in our squad now and we will develop one in that position. We need the right player. We have a list and we will strike the moment the player is available."
The Premier League started last weekend, with Chelsea picking up a 1-0 win away at Everton, while United lost 2-1 to Brighton & Hove Albion at home.
