Manchester City could be prepared to hijack Manchester United’s attempts to sign Frenkie de Jong this summer, according to reports.
The Manchester Evening News understands United have contacted Barcelona about De Jong’s potential availability ahead of Erik ten Hag’s arrival at Old Trafford as the club’s new manager. De Jong and Ten Hag worked together during their time at Ajax.
Reports suggesting an imminent deal could be in the works are thought to be wide of the mark, but United are determined to move swiftly for a new midfielder with Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic both set to depart. But their neighbours could spoil things for them.
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According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, City could be poised to swoop in should United fail in their attempts to lure De Jong to Old Trafford. The prospect of Europa League football is said to be a sticking point for the 25-year-old, with United out of the running for next season’s Champions League.
Pep Guardiola is said to have chased a deal for the Netherlands international in 2019, only for De Jong to choose Barcelona instead. Reports in Spain suggest he may have another method of bringing him to the Etihad this time, with Bernardo Silva tipped to be offered as part of a deal.
Elsewhere, Raheem Sterling has reportedly ruled out a move to either Arsenal or Tottenham as speculation continues to mount over his future. The England international’s spot at the Etihad has been a constant talking point this season after Sterling suggested earlier in the campaign he could look elsewhere for regular playing time.
According to The Athletic, the 27-year-old is in no rush to decide on his future, with talks not set to take place until the summer. The report claims Sterling is committed to City but wants assurances over his playing time.
Amid the uncertainty over his future, Sterling has been linked with a move to north London, with both Arsenal and Spurs being linked. The forward is said to have no desire of moving to either club and has his eyes set on a move to one of ‘Europe’s most decorated teams’ should he leave City.
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