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Manchester United are reportedly still keen on signing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, although they face competition from a number of Premier League rivals.
The Lowdown: Constant De Jong links
The Dutchman was constantly linked with a move to Old Trafford throughout the summer transfer window, with his future at the La Liga club up in the air.
In the end, De Jong stayed put at Camp Nou, and he has largely performed well this season, enjoying a 92.2% pass completion rate across nine La Liga appearances.
However, a fresh rumour has emerged which suggests that the 25-year-old could still move on in the near future.
The Latest: United still keen on signing De Jong
According to ESPN, De Jong is still being tracked by United ahead of a potential January move, with Barca seemingly not desperate to keep hold of him.
Chelsea and Liverpool are also credited with strong interest, though, and the three Premier League heavyweights are ‘ready to lead the race’ for his signature.
The Blues are believed to have been given encouragement that the 25-year-old could be willing to reconsider his Camp Nou future amid a sparsity of starts and the firm possibility of Barcelona failing to get out of their Champions League group.
The Verdict: Final piece of midfield jigsaw
While De Jong not necessarily being a key player at Barca may raise some eyebrows over his quality as a footballer, he could be a wonderful signing for United.
His technical ability in tight spaces and resistance to the press would make him an ideal foil for Casemiro in the middle of the park, as well as an upgrade on Fred, with his seasonal WhoScored rating continually exceeding the ex-Shakhtar Donetsk man.
To have Casemiro and De Jong sitting deeper, with Christian Eriksen or Bruno Fernandes causing havoc further forward, would have the potential to be an exceptional and well-balanced United midfield.
Whether or not the Red Devils can pip their domestic rivals to his signature remains to be seen but he ticks all the boxes in midfield, having been hailed as ‘extraordinary‘ by his manager Xavi in the past.