Pep Guardiola’s City Set To Bid £90m For Manchester United Target Who Snubbed Erik ten Hag

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Reports from Spain indicated that De Jong spoke with Ten Hag on the phone last summer and made it clear that he had no desire to join the Red Devils.

In an interview with Voetbal International, De Jong explained his decision to stay at Barcelona, stating, “That has always been clear to me, even last summer when things were unsettled for a while. I always knew that I wanted to stay at Barcelona. That’s why I wasn’t stressed during that period. Moreover, I had just signed a contract extension in 2020, so I always felt in control and capable of deciding for myself. That’s why I didn’t worry about it. I feel good at Barcelona and assume that I will still be playing here next season.”

While Guardiola also faced rejection from De Jong in 2019 when he opted to sign for Barcelona instead of Manchester City, the Spanish manager is willing to make another attempt this summer.

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According to The Sun, Guardiola is contemplating a £90 million swoop for De Jong as he searches for a replacement for captain Ilkay Gundogan.

Although City recently acquired Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea for £30 million, he is expected to be more of a squad player than a regular starter.

Xavi, the newly appointed Barcelona manager, would prefer to retain De Jong, who still has three years remaining on his contract at the Nou Camp and earns £400,000 per week after tax.

However, the financially strained Catalan club acknowledges that removing his hefty wages from their books would provide them with much-needed relief, and they are aware of Manchester City’s ability to facilitate a deal.

Last week, City made a £90 million bid for West Ham captain Declan Rice but swiftly withdrew from the race after Arsenal increased their offer to £105 million.

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It is evident that Guardiola has significant funds at his disposal but is unwilling to overspend on targets.

Should the pursuit of De Jong prove unsuccessful, City have been linked with several other midfield options, including Joao Palhinha and Martin Zubimendi.

Furthermore, there is the possibility of Bernardo Silva departing the club this summer, similarly to Gundogan.

Manchester City’s pursuit of Frenkie de Jong demonstrates their ambition to bolster their midfield ranks with top-class talent.

Guardiola’s willingness to invest wisely and seek alternatives if necessary highlights the meticulous approach taken by the club in their recruitment process.

As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether City’s pursuit of De Jong will come to fruition or if alternative options will emerge.