Man Utd transfer target Frenkie de Jong told to reduce salary AGAIN as Barcelona try to free up funds for Messi
MANCHESTER UNITED transfer target Frenkie de Jong is reportedly set to meet to discuss his future at Barcelona.
De Jong was one of United’s top transfer priorities last summer and the club even had a £72million offer accepted by Barcelona.
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But the midfielder refused to make the move and Erik ten Hag signed Casemiro from Real Madrid instead.
However, the Red Devils boss is said to still be keen on De Jong, who faces an uncertain future at the Nou Camp.
Barcelona want the 26-year-old to agree to a pay cut amid his financial woes, Mundo Deportivo report.
De Jong could extend his contract, which expires in 2026, by two to three years.
But Barca want to cut his wages – something De Jong could refuse as the club owe him £14.5million after postponing his wages during the coronavirus pandemic.
Barcelona also asked De Jong to accept a pay cut last summer and they could be tempted to sell again if he refuses.
La Liga leaders are keen to re-sign Lionel Messi, whose spell at Paris Saint-Germain appears to be drawing to a close.
The 35-year-old was banned by the club after an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia which saw him miss training on Monday.
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PSG are reportedly set to let his contract expire while Barca bosses are ready to pounce.
Vice-President Rafa Yuste said about Messi’s possible return: “We have been in contact with Leo Messi’s camp. Leo knows how much we appreciate him and I would love for him to come back.
“Of course Messi loves Barça and the city, so we hope to find the right conditions to continue his story here.”
