Chelsea confident of Frenkie de Jong transfer

Chelsea are confident of signing Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong after opening negotiations with Barcelona.

The west London giants are looking for an experienced midfielder, and it appears De Jong has emerged as the top target.

United have already agreed a fee with Barcelona for the 25-year-old, but the midfielder is said to be reluctant to join them.

He is said to be eyeing Champions League football next term, and The Times believe Chelsea are now favourites for him.

De Jong has yet to publicly reveal his intention to leave the Blaugrana, and he is waiting for his deferred wages to be paid.

Once that happens, the Dutchman is likely to choose his next club, and Chelsea could be in pole position to land him.

Aside from Champions League football, he has the chance to stay in London. De Jong prefers the English capital over Manchester.

De Jong is likely to decide his future towards the end of August. Chelsea may need to pay around £71m for his services.