Frenkie de Jong gets frank about clashing Barcelona and Man Utd move

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Frenkie de Jong has opened up on clashing with Barcelona chiefs in the summer amid interest from Manchester United. De Jong was the top midfield target for the Red Devils for the majority of the summer window.

United had agreed a fee with Barcelona to sign the Holland international. Chelsea were also interested in the player.

However, De Jong was adamant he was going to stay at the Nou Camp. Barca were open to selling the 25-year-old, with United willing to pay an initial £63million plus add-ons.

Barca’s financial situation meant they would consider offers for the majority of their squad. But De Jong got his way and has stayed put at the La Liga club.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday ahead of his country’s Nations League matches against Poland and Belgium, De Jong lifted the lid on what happened in the summer. And he admitted it was not all plain sailing with the hierarchy at Barca.

De Jong quizzed on Man Utd transfer links in June

De Jong said: “I always wanted to stay at Barcelona and this is why I always remained calm in the summer. I can’t give too much details away.

“But look.. the club has its own ideas and I have my own ideas too and sometimes this clashes with each other. But at the end of the day things went okay.”

De Jong has started just three La Liga matches so far this season, coming off the bench in the other three. He has also only started one of the two Champions League group stage matches to date.

Holland boss Louis van Gaal admits he had calls from some of his players during the transfer window. The former United manager says he wished both De Jong and Memphis Depay were playing more regularly than they currently are.

DON’T MISS
Ronaldo shares Dalot ‘carcass’ joke as Man Utd star opens up on retirement
Agbonlahor thinks Ten Hag has frozen out two Man Utd players – ‘Scary times’
Chelsea boss Potter ‘wants to cut loan short in January’ as clause emerges

Van Gaal said this week: “It is true that many players called me in the transfer window. But I always ended every conversation with: ‘This is my advice, but you make your own decision’.

“I am happy with the outcome. But I would be happier if Frenkie and Memphis would play more than they are now.”

Depay was expected to leave Barca after just one season at the club. He was a top target for Juventus but his wage demands put paid to that move.

Depay has made three appearances for Barca so far this term. He scored in the 3-0 win over Elche last weekend.

Want the latest Premier League news as we publish it on Express Sport? Join our new Facebook group by clicking here

Click here to buy the new Man Utd home shirt

Source: Read Full Article