These are your Man United morning headlines on Thursday, August 4.
20.07.2022 - 11:29 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Manchester United transfer target Frenkie de Jong stepped off the bench in Barcelona's 6-0 win over Inter Miami and was forced to play at centre-back.
The Spanish heavyweights, who are doing all they can to keep hold of the Dutchman this summer, secured their first win of their pre-season schedule. New signing Raphinha, who joined the club from Leeds United last week, was the star of the show, grabbing a goal and two assists in the first-half.
Like most managers do in pre-season, Barcelona head coach Xavi made wholesale changes at half-time in a bid to give as many minutes as possible to every member of his squad. De Jong was among those who stepped off the bench at the break and he was forced to slot in at centre-back, helping form a back-three.
READ MORE: Donny van de Beek makes telling admission about his United struggles
Barcelona are not light on options in midfield, but former Manchester City man Ferran Torres slotted into the centre of midfield against Inter Miami, joining Sergio Busquets and youngster Gavi. That meant that De Jong was forced to play in a very unfamiliar role at the back.
Considering De Jong is regarded as a progressive midfielder that likes to get on the ball and play through the lines, it came as a surprise to those watching.
United registered their interest in De Jong more than two months ago and are yet to make the significant breakthrough they are longing for, despite agreeing a fee with Barcelona last month. The midfielder is owed £17million in deferred wages and that is holding up any hopes United have of getting a deal over the line.
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These are your Man United morning headlines on Thursday, August 4.
Manchester United supporters are feeling optimistic ahead of the new season with new boss Erik ten Hag at the helm.
Manchester United are continuing with their pursuit of Frenkie de Jong as their back-up targets are not deemed to be at the same level as the Barcelona midfielder.
New Manchester United signing Lisandro Martinez has been backed to help improve the performances of both Raphael Varane and club captain Harry Maguire.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has issued a fresh update on Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong's future in Spain.
Christian Eriksen has made it clear that he expects to be a regular at Manchester United after signing for the club.
Frenkie de Jong has told Barcelona he is 'open' to taking a pay cut to remain at the club amid Manchester United's interest, according to reports.
Gary Neville has sent a strong message to Frenkie de Jong and Barcelona amid Manchester United's ongoing transfer saga with the Dutch midfielder.
Barcelona's president has admitted the club need to clarify the situation with Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong.
Donny van de Beek disagrees with Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag's verdict on his best position.
Erik ten Hag says he will not use the pitch as an excuse when Manchester United face Aston Villa in their fourth pre-season friendly.
Manchester United supporters have been sent wild after Erik ten Hag named his starting line-up for their final pre-season game in Australia this morning (10.45am UK time) - with Donny van de Beek getting the nod.
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel believes Cristiano Ronaldo can help Christian Eriksen thrive at Old Trafford.
Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek could make his first start under Erik ten Hag when their summer roadshow continues against Aston Villa on Saturday (10.45am UK time).
Manchester United could reportedly look to use Donny van de Beek as a makeweight in a deal as they look to improve their midfield.
Realistically, every single Manchester United player has a point to prove to Erik ten Hag right now. The new Manchester United boss was brought in to change the culture at the football club after an excruciatingly disappointing season.
Manchester United are reportedly open to offering Frenkie de Jong a huge pay rise to ensure they complete a deal for the Dutchman.
Barcelona have named Frenkie de Jong in their pre-season tour squad of the United States with Manchester United into a tenth week of discussions to sign the midfielder.