Marc-Andre Ter Stegen wants Frenkie de Jong to stay at Barcelona 'forever' following Manchester United's interest in the midfielder.
United take on Barcelona on Thursday in what promises to be a blockbuster tie in the Europa League. It will also see Erik ten Hag come up against his top target from the summer.
The new manager was desperate to add Frenkie de Jong to his ranks in the transfer window to transform his midfield but despite a fee being agreed the deal didn't come to pass as the Dutchman wanted to remain at the Camp Nou. It all worked out well as instead United turned their attention to Casemiro who has been sublime as he's revolutionised the side. However, Ten Hag could be tempted to try again for De Jong this year.
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Barca goalkeeper Ter Stegen hopes that doesn't come to pass, though, and wishes his teammate never leaves Catalonia.
"He brings a lot to the team," Ter Stegen said via ESPN. "I have a super high opinion of him, but I also expect a lot from him because he has so much talent. He sees and feels football in a different way. He is someone that players like Gavi and Pedri, for example, can look up to.
"I was hoping he would stay because, in the end, this is the type of player I want in my team. Of course, there were many rumours and discussions and whatever, but I am just happy he is here. I don't want him to leave.
"I think one day I will put him something here [gestures tying him down] to just keep him here always, forever, and I hope he will be here for [a] long [time]."
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