Dutch star confirms Man Utd wanted to sign him

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has confirmed that Manchester United wanted to sign him last summer.

The Netherlands international was identified as a top target for manager Erik ten Hag after he was appointed last year.

United managed to negotiate a fee for him after regular talks but they could not agree personal terms for a transfer.

De Jong was adamant that he was not leaving the Blaugrana and he has now revealed the same in an interview.

Speaking to NOS, he said: "The club was in a difficult situation and they could have sold me for a big fee, they wanted to."

"But I didn’t want to go and stayed. Man United spoke with Barça, even though I wanted to stay. I want to be at Barça for as long as I can."

Ten Hag continues to remain an admirer of the midfielder but it appears unlikely that he will leave the Catalan giants.

The Dutchman may have to look elsewhere to bolster his midfield.