Nine midfielders Man Utd could target if they miss out on Frenkie De Jong transfer
The Netherlands international has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester United, but we assess some alternatives should they fail to complete the signing.
Manchester United’s continued pursuit of Frenkie De Jong shows no sign of ending any time soon, despite recent reports that the Red Devils are willing to up their offer closer to Barcelona’s asking price.
Club CEO Richard Arnold admitted last weekend that they do indeed wish to sign the midfielder, when he was secretly recorded speaking to fans at a Cheshire pub.
Arnold also claimed that ‘money is no consideration’ meaning the Red Devils should be capable of completing a deal.
As well as De Jong, United have been heavily linked with a move for Christian Eriksen, while Antony’s name is appearing more regularly in recent transfer write-ups.
But it’s De Jong who appears to be the club’s main priority, which is why claims made in Spain that Manchester City are in the running to sign the Dutchman are so concerning for supporters.
Mundo Deportivo reported that Pep Guardiola could move for De Jong if Bernardo Silva moves to the Nou Camp, something they claim the City midfielder is interested in.
So, should United miss out De Jong, who else could they sign? We’ve picked out nine alternative holding midfielders the Red Devils have already been linked with this summer.
Arnold also claimed that ‘money is no consideration’ meaning the Red Devils should be capable of completing a deal.
5. John McGinn
The energetic Scotsman is more akin to Scott McTominay and Fred than De Jong, who can dictate the flow of a game. But it’s believed McGinn has many admirers at Old Trafford.
6. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic
More offensive than De Jong and, at 27, he’s approaching his peak years. The Serbian is reportedly a target for Chelsea but was heavily linked with United earlier this wind
7. Ruben Neves
In a similar mould to De Jong and is the same age. The Portugal international would be a good addition and much cheaper than the Barcelona man.
8. Kalvin Phillips
Should City sign De Jong, it means a move to the Etihad looks unlikely for Phillips. The Leeds United midfielder is good on the ball, protects the defence but is also capable of marauding forward.