Crystal Palace News

Home

Quizzes

Newsletter

Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images

Manchester United warned off making a move for Barcelona star; not a match-winner

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Oct 5, 2025 9:53 AM ET

Manchester United have been looking for a new midfielder, and Frenkie de Jong has been on their wishlist for several transfer windows

Manchester United have long been looking for a quality midfielder, and they have been interested in Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong since the time Erik Ten Hag was in charge at Old Trafford. The Barcelona midfielder is currently a very important part of the double pivot of Hansi Flick’s system at Barcelona. United still have a secret interest for the 28-year-old world-class midfielder, but former Spanish Òscar Garcia has a different opinion on the former Ajax midfielder.

Garcia feels that it is not worth it for the Red Devils to make a move for the 28-year-old. The former coach did accept that de Jong is a fine player, but he feels that the Barcelona midfielder does not step up in big matches to demand one of the highest wages in the squad. Garcia feels that the Barcelona man sits somewhere in between underrated and overpaid.

“I think he’s better than you say and worse than what he’s paid to do. He’s a good player, but he’s not the typical footballer we’ve always had in that position in front of the defence. And he’s not decisive enough to be one of the highest-paid. Normally, the highest paid are the ones who decide games.”

Quote relayed by: Manchester Evening News

The 28-year-old has a mixed tenure at the Catalonian club. He has seen one of the worst phases of Barcelona, and had to adjust to different tactics of the constantly changing managers. The Dutchman has also faced criticism for his inconsistent performances under Xavi, but under the current German coach, he has grown in stature to play with Pedri in the double pivot and dictate matches. However, de Jong’s contract expires in 2026. Barcelona want to reduce his wages and extend his tenure til 2029, as he takes up an important role in Flick’s system.

However, whether or not he extends his contract will ultimately depend on what happens with the deferred wages and how all the parties fix the agent-related issues. Currently, his future at Barcelona is still not certain, and hence all these rumours of a move to Old Trafford have crept up.

Do Manchester United need de Jong?

While De Jong’s technical ability and calmness in possession remain undeniable, Manchester United must decide whether he fits their current needs. The Dutchman thrives when paired with a defensive partner, someone who allows him to dictate play and advance from deep positions. Yet United already have players who can move the ball forward, raising doubts about whether United need another expensive signing. Garcia’s view that De Jong lacks match-deciding impact may resonate with fans who expect a more commanding presence in big games.

Reports of United’s continued chase for De Jong show Amorim’s desire to bring more stability to midfield. United should refocus their recruitment plans, especially when the club has broader priorities. They are already weighing options at right-back, as Manchester United shortlisted three stars as they eye right-back options, which suggests a more balanced rebuild is underway. Meanwhile, Ruben Amorim is under constant pressure, and United have been looking at his potential replacements with Oliver Glasner at the top of the wishlist. However, Paul Merson feels that the Crystal Palace manager is not the right fit for United.

In the end, De Jong’s talent is undeniable, but fit and timing matter just as much as ability. Unless Manchester United can align their tactics and squad structure around his strengths, continuing the chase might serve neither side well. Sometimes, restraint signals progress more than another high-profile bid ever could.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: