Frenkie de Jong has revealed that Manchester United approached Barcelona last summer in an attempt to secure his signature ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.
Upon his arrival as Red Devils head coach, Erik ten Hag appeared to identify De Jong as his leading target, and the 20-time English champions spent much of the transfer window pursuing him.
The Netherlands international insisted on a number of occasions that he wanted to stay at Camp Nou, though, despite Barcelona's apparent willingness to sell due to their financial issues.
De Jong has now revealed that Man United failed with a move for him last summer, but the 26-year-old is determined to remain with Barcelona "for as long as possible" amid fresh links switch a switch to Old Trafford.
"Manchester United already spoke with Barcelona [last summer] despite the fact that I wanted to stay here," De Jong told NOS.
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"The club was in a difficult situation. They were able to sell me for a big fee, and they wanted to do this, but I did not want to leave so I stayed. If everything goes well for me and for the club, then I want to stay here for as long as possible.
"I have won the league here so now there is just one thing left for me to win this season, and that's the Nations League [with the Netherlands]. It's not the Euros or a World Cup, but I think it would be a nice sign if we manage to win it."
According to Ziggo Sport, Barcelona are now keen to discuss a new contract with De Jong despite the midfielder having another three years left to run on his deal.
The Dutchman has been a vital player for the Catalan outfit this term, featuring on 40 occasions in all competitions, contributing two goals and three assists in the process.
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In total, De Jong has now made 180 appearances for Barcelona since arriving from Ajax in July 2019, scoring 15 goals and registering 20 assists in the process.
The midfielder also recently said that he has a "good" relationship with Barcelona president Joan Laporta despite a "situation" last summer.
"My relationship with the president is good. In reality, it has never been bad," De Jong told Ziggo Sport. "Of course, there was this situation last summer, but my relationship with him is good."
Barcelona will move for another midfielder this summer, with Sergio Busquets preparing to leave on a free transfer at the end of June.
Matt Law
