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Frenkie de Jong has confirmed that he's 'very close' to signing a new contract at Barcelona, putting a definitive end to talk of him joining Manchester United . De Jong, 28, was former boss Erik ten Hag's dream signing shortly after his appointment in the summer of 2022, having enjoyed success together at Ajax.

Then-United chiefs Richard Arnold and John Murtough travelled to Spain in an effort to finalise a deal for the midfielder, agreeing on an initial fee of £56million with cash-strapped Barca. De Jong, though, wasn't on board.

Barcelona's hierarchy were attempting to force him out, yet the Dutchman - who pockets more than £300,000 per week - wasn't willing to abandon his dream club, who he joined in 2019. Therefore, after weeks of putting on a charm offensive, United

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