Manchester United are reportedly prepared to walk away from a deal to sign Frenkie de Jong if Barcelona refuse to lower their valuation of the midfielder.
The 25-year-old is believed to be the Red Devils' primary target this summer, with one report claiming that Erik ten Hag has convinced his Dutch compatriot to move to Old Trafford, even though the club will not be competing in the Champions League next season.
United football director John Murtough is understood to have opened talks with Barca's hierarchy over a deal for De Jong, although their first bid worth around £60m was rejected by the Catalan giants.
According to the Manchester Evening News, United will refuse to pay over the odds for the midfielder and will consider walking away from the deal if Barca fail to lower their €100m (£85.7m) valuation.
The report adds that Ten Hag is willing to move onto other targets if they are unable to lure De Jong to Old Trafford, with Leeds United's Kalvin Phillips still believed to be on their radar despite strong links with a move to their rival Manchester City.
De Jong, who still has four years remaining on his contract at Camp Nou, has recorded 13 goals and 17 assists in 139 appearances for Barcelona across all competitions.
Oliver Thomas
