Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has dropped another major update on Manchester United’s attempts to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

De Jong appears to be a key target for new United boss Erik ten Hag, with Romano revealing in the middle of May that there was contact between the two clubs.

Ten Hag and De Jong worked together at Ajax, with the latter moving to Barcelona in 2019 in a deal worth £77.4m.

The 25-year-old has made 139 appearances at the Nou Camp over the last three seasons, but due to Barcelona’s financial situation, a move to another of Europe's super clubs could well be on the cards.

The Latest: Romano’s next update

Romano took to Twitter on Wednesday morning to share his most recent update regarding De Jong and Manchester United.

He revealed that United have ‘opened direct talks with Barca’ for the Dutch midfielder, who has a price tag of around €85m (£72m). De Jong ‘wants’ Champions League football, however, Romano once again cited Barcelona’s ‘financial issues’ and said the Red Devils will try to ‘push again’.

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The Verdict: Fingers crossed

United have clearly not given up hope when it comes to De Jong and have now opened direct talks, which can only be a positive sign.

Hopefully, we’ll hear that talks have progressed in the coming days and should a move eventually materialise, you’d expect De Jong could be a direct replacement for Paul Pogba.

The Frenchman will become a free agent at the end of June after the Red Devils officially confirmed his imminent exit, so De Jong, who has enjoyed success under Ten Hag in the past, could be the ideal signing to bolster the club’s midfield ranks.

In other news: Man Utd and Ten Hag now hold talks over yet another target; interest 'serious'.