Rafael van der Vaart has encouraged Frenkie de Jong to leave Barcelona and join Manchester United this summer.
The 25-year-old is a major target for United, who are looking to rebuild their squad as Erik ten Hag takes charge and looks to turn the club’s fortunes around following a painful season.
It’s reported that Barcelona want in the region of £65million for the midfielder, who appears increasingly willing to make the move to Old Trafford.
Fellow Dutchman Van der Vaart spent two years in England with Tottenham and he is confident that De Jong would thrive in the Premier League.
“At Manchester United it will be just like at the national team, being the only one with his type of qualities,” Van der Vaart said.
“The Premier League is a heaven for midfielders. Everyone says ‘it’s quick’, but it only looks like a fast paced game because players lose the ball a lot there.
“Just look at Bergkamp, you can enjoy yourself there. I enjoyed myself there too.”
De Jong is one of a number of either current or former Ajax players that worked with Ten Hag at the club and are now linked with a reunion with the manager at United.
Ten Hag taking the reins at Old Trafford is a major factor in De Jong’s willingness to join United, with Jurrien Timber and Antony also potential targets for what looks to be a Dutch revolution in Manchester.
Van der Vaart added: “That transfer would be ideal. There is a coach who knows exactly what he can and cannot do.
“If he had to choose today, I would go to United if I were him.”
