Man Utd transfer news: ‘Significant development’ in Frenkie de Jong deal & Christian Eriksen latest

Frenkie de Jong is ‘open to joining’ Manchester United, according to the latest reports from the Guardian.

The outlet claim this is a ‘significant development’ in the ongoing transfer saga, with the Barcelona midfielder said to be the Red Devils’ chief target in the market.

It was reported earlier on Wednesday that De Jong was not interested in leaving the Nou Camp and had informed Barcelona of his intentions, as per Sport.

Meanwhile, his former manager Ronald Koeman said this week that the Netherlands international wanted to stay at Barca, something De Jong had admitted in May before he was strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford.

However, the Guardian’s update suggests a deal now looks likely, with the clubs agreeing an initial fee of £56.2m (€65m) which could rise to £73.24 (€85m) depending on add-ons, while negotiations have now moved onto personal terms.

In other transfer news, the article adds there is ‘hope at United that Christian Eriksen could join’ despite originally suggesting he would like to remain in the capital.

The former Tottenham Hotspur man is said to be a target for Brentford, where Eriksen played last term, with Eveton, Leicester City and Newcastle United also reportedly hoping to sign the Dane.

The Guardian add that Ajax are ‘reluctant’ to sell Antony and Lisandro Martinez, with both Ajax players linked to United this week.

As the market approaches its fourth week the Red Devils are yet to make additions to their 2021/22 squad, while, since Monday, Erik ten Hag has led his first week of pre-season training with the squad.