Man United planning blockbuster move to sign Barcelona midfielder

Man United Setback in Midfield Chase as Barcelona Secure Star’s Future

United’s Midfield Plans Hit Major Obstacle

Manchester United’s hopes of strengthening Ruben Amorim’s squad with a marquee midfield addition have taken a significant hit. Frenkie de Jong, long admired at Old Trafford, has agreed a contract extension at Barcelona that runs until 2029. According to Football Insider.

Mick Brown, the former United scout with a decade of experience at the club during its most successful years, explained why De Jong remains a figure of fascination in Manchester. “Man United have tried to sign De Jong before,” he said. “When he was at Ajax, they had a look at him but he chose to go to Barcelona, and since then they’ve tried to sign him from Barcelona as well but could never agree a deal.”

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Brown added that the Dutchman’s qualities remain highly valued. “He’s a very good player, he showed that again when he played against Newcastle, I thought he had a really good game. So it doesn’t come as a surprise that Man United are looking at him again.”

Barcelona Secure De Jong’s Loyalty

Barcelona’s determination to keep hold of their influential midfielder has paid off. Reports in Spain suggest the Netherlands international has accepted a reduction in wages to remain a key part of Hansi Flick’s plans. By extending his deal until 2029, De Jong has shut the door on speculation linking him to the Premier League.

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The 27-year-old has featured in four of Barcelona’s six matches this season, including their Champions League victory against Newcastle. His influence remains central to the club’s ambitions both domestically and in Europe. Former United manager Louis van Gaal once described De Jong as “incredible” for his international performances, a sentiment that continues to resonate with supporters who hoped to see him at Old Trafford.

United Left Searching for Alternatives

United’s midfield rebuilding remains unfinished. The club has also been linked with Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton, but losing out on De Jong once more will sting. Amorim has made it clear that a new midfielder is essential if United are to impose themselves consistently at the highest level.

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Brown suggested the player’s future will always come down to personal choice. “Whether they can get a deal done will depend on Barcelona, if his contract talks have delayed then maybe he could make a move and take advantage of that. It looks like it’ll be up to him, if he fancies a move then he’ll look at his options and Man United will be among them, but otherwise he might decide to stay at Barcelona.”

For now, it seems clear that De Jong has chosen stability in Catalonia over a move to Old Trafford, and United must once again pivot their strategy in the market.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This latest update feels like yet another frustrating chapter in the De Jong saga. For years now, his name has been linked to Old Trafford and every time it feels like United might be close, the story ends with him recommitting to Barcelona.

There is admiration for his style, his control of midfield, his ability to dictate tempo and link defence to attack. Supporters can see why Amorim and the recruitment team are so keen. Yet the constant chase begins to feel like an unwinnable pursuit, a distraction from more realistic targets.

Fans may question why the club continue to spend energy on a player who has shown little desire to leave Barcelona. Accepting a pay cut to stay until 2029 shows not just loyalty but a clear commitment to the Spanish club’s project. For United supporters, the disappointment lies in what could have been.

At the same time, there is recognition that Amorim is right to push for a midfielder of De Jong’s calibre. If United are to close the gap on rivals and compete seriously for major honours, they cannot rely solely on youth prospects or short-term fixes. The next step should be decisive, targeting players who want the move, who see United as the right platform for their peak years.

Many fans will now look towards names like Baleba or Wharton as potential solutions, but there is an underlying hope that the club can finally deliver a midfield signing who changes the dynamic. Until then, the sight of De Jong orchestrating games in Catalonia will remain a reminder of the one who got away.