Premier League side Manchester United is Set to Sign Barcelona Star Frenkie de Jong in a £80million move next summer.How is Erik Ten Hag manager to make this

Manchester United is reportedly poised to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong in a deal worth £80 million next summer. This potential transfer underscores manager Erik Ten Hag’s strategic vision for the team and his previous connection with de Jong during their time together at Ajax.

### Ten Hag’s Influence

1. **Established Relationship**: Erik Ten Hag managed de Jong at Ajax, where they enjoyed significant success, including winning the Eredivisie and reaching the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 2019. This established rapport could be a crucial factor in convincing de Jong to join United, as Ten Hag understands his style of play and personal motivations.

2. **Tactical Fit**: Ten Hag’s tactical system emphasizes possession-based football, fluid movement, and the ability to control games from midfield. De Jong, known for his exceptional passing ability, vision, and dribbling skills, perfectly fits this style. His presence could enhance United’s midfield, providing creativity and stability.

3. **Rebuilding the Squad**: Manchester United is undergoing a significant rebuilding phase, aiming to return to the top of English and European football. Ten Hag is tasked with rejuvenating the squad and improving performance levels. Signing a high-profile player like de Jong would signal intent and ambition, potentially attracting other quality players to the club.

### Financial Considerations

1. **Barcelona’s Financial Situation**: Barcelona has been facing financial difficulties, leading them to consider offloading some key players. Selling de Jong could help balance their books, making the £80 million move more feasible from their perspective. This situation could provide United with an opportunity to secure the midfielder at a competitive price.

2. **Investment in Talent**: For Manchester United, investing in a player of de Jong’s caliber reflects their commitment to building a squad capable of challenging for major honors. The £80 million fee, while substantial, would be viewed as a long-term investment in a player who can contribute significantly over several seasons.

### The Competitive Landscape

1. **Interest from Other Clubs**: While Manchester United appears to be in pole position for de Jong, other clubs could also show interest, particularly if he continues to perform well at Barcelona. Ten Hag’s familiarity with the player could give United an edge in negotiations and in appealing to de Jong’s ambitions.

2. **Player Ambitions**: De Jong has expressed a desire to play at the highest level and compete in prestigious tournaments. Joining United under Ten Hag could present a clear pathway for him to showcase his talents in the Premier League and potentially return to Champions League football, depending on the club’s progress.

### Conclusion

In summary, Erik Ten Hag’s potential acquisition of Frenkie de Jong represents a strategic move for Manchester United, aligning with the manager’s vision for the club. Their past working relationship, de Jong’s tactical fit, and the financial landscape surrounding Barcelona create a favorable environment for this transfer. If successful, this move could significantly bolster United’s midfield and contribute to their long-term ambitions of regaining their status as a dominant force in football.