Man United transfer news: Red Devils 'are clear favourites' to sign Barcelona star

De Jong was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford in the summer of 2022, with incoming Man United head coach Erik ten Hag believed to have made the Netherlands international his number one transfer target.

However, the midfielder made it clear on a number of occasions that he was not interested in an exit, and the Red Devils ultimately switched their attention to Casemiro in the latter stages of the window.

There is again speculation surrounding the 27-year-old's future, with off-the-field issues potentially leading to him leaving Camp Nou during next summer's transfer market.

According to Fichajes, if De Jong decides against renewing his contract with Barcelona, then it is likely that he will be sold in 2025, with Man United leading to race for his signature.

Man United 'the favourites' to sign De Jong from Barcelona

The report claims that 'everything points to' De Jong leaving Barcelona next year, as the midfielder is not thought to be willing to sign a contract which has been on the table since January.

The Dutchman has a deal at Camp Nou until June 2026, and he agreed to defer a large portion of his salary to help Barcelona during the pandemic, but a recent report claimed that an agreement had been reached over unpaid wages.

However, in order for De Jong to receive €18m (£15m), he will allegedly have to agree to an exit during next summer's transfer window, which has also attracted the attention of Manchester City.

While the Dutchman is regarded as a key player for Barcelona, his significant wages are a problem due to the club's financial issues, while he is a player capable of raising a large transfer fee, which would help the Catalan outfit dramatically.

Should Man United move for De Jong?

Man United are still short in central midfield despite investing in that area, with the Red Devils lacking a ball-playing midfielder, and De Jong certainly fits the bill in that regard.

De Jong has only just returned from a long-term ankle problem, featuring off the bench in Barcelona's last two matches, but he is now expected to receive a run of games in the coming weeks.

Much will depend on price, as Man United simply cannot afford to spend another £70m on a player who is past his best, but De Jong is capable of being a transformative signing for the 20-time English champions, and if the deal is right, then it would be an excellent piece of business for the Red Devils.