Manchester United 'want Jude Bellingham, Frenkie de Jong next summer'

The Red Devils spent much of the summer market chasing De Jong, with the Netherlands international identified as Erik ten Hag's leading transfer target.

However, the club were ultimately forced to admit defeat in their pursuit of the 25-year-old, who insisted on a number of occasions that he did not want to leave Camp Nou.

Barcelona sporting director Jordi Cruyff recently suggested that De Jong was no longer for sale, but a recent report claimed that the midfielder would be open to leaving Barcelona next summer.

The Catalan outfit's ongoing financial problems allegedly mean that they are still open to selling the Dutchman, who struggled to earn starts in the early stages of the 2022-23 campaign.

According to The Sun, Man United want both De Jong and Bellingham next summer in a double deal that could be worth in the region of £200m.

The report claims that the Red Devils are confident of convincing Bellingham to make the move to Old Trafford despite allegedly being down the pecking order at this moment in time.

Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid are said to be the favourites for the Dortmund midfielder, but Man United are reportedly refusing to give up on the England international.

Bellingham was in impressive form for his country at the 2022 World Cup, scoring once and providing one assist in five appearances.

Meanwhile, the 19-year-old has scored nine goals and registered three assists in 22 appearances for Dortmund during the 2022-23 campaign.

Man United are currently well-stocked in the middle of midfield, with the club bringing in both Casemiro and Christian Eriksen during the summer market.

Bruno Fernandes, Donny van de Beek, Scott McTominay and Fred are also options in that area of the field, but there could potentially be exits next year.

Fred's contract is due to expire in June 2023, and a recent report claimed that Man United would be open to letting the Brazil international leave on a free transfer.

Meanwhile, Van de Beek could potentially depart next summer if he continues to find it difficult to earn regular starts for the 20-time English champions.

Man United are currently preparing for the return of competitive action, with the club taking on Burnley in the EFL Cup on Wednesday night.