Ten Hag dealt blow as Barcelona consider Man Utd target 'untouchable'

Tom Weber

• Updated: 24 Apr 2023 13:40 BST
• 3 min read

Erik ten Hag's pursuit of star midfielder Frenkie de Jong appears to have taken a hit after Barcelona have revealed their stance on a potential transfer.

De Jong starred for Ten Hag's Ajax prior to his €75 million move to Catalonia in 2019, and the Dutch coach has been keen to reunite with his former protégé ever since. Indeed, with the 53-year-old looking to overhaul a Manchester United squad consisting of a lot of dead weight from the previous regimes, De Jong has crystallised as one transfer target that could complete the Red Devils' midfield.

The 25-year-old holding midfielder has gone from strength to strength since his big-money move and he has been a vital cog in Barcelona's soon-to-be title-winning squad this term. Nevertheless, rumours about his future have rumbled on in the background for the entirety of the campaign and some suggested that, with Barcelona strapped for cash, the Dutchman could finally link up with his former coach this summer.

READ: Ten Hag outlines clear Man Utd priority in direct transfer demand

Now, Barcelona have made their stance on a potential transfer of their midfield maestro clear.

De Jong is 'untouchable'

According to AS journalist Javi Miguel, the Blaugrana have no intention of selling their star midfielder despite their well-publicised economic problems and the need to massively reduce their wage bill to comply with LaLiga's Financial Fair Play regulations. Indeed, according to Miguel, head coach Xavi considers De Jong 'untouchable' this summer.

This shouldn't come as a shock considering Barcelona will likely be gunning for the Champions League next term and they will need the 25-year-old in this endeavour. Nevertheless, it is somewhat surprising in light of Barcelona's need to balance the books.

READ: The TRUTH behind Messi's Barcelona visit

Despite Barcelona's proclaimed stance, it is unlikely to fully deter Ten Hag and his Manchester United who are looking to become more 'ruthless' in their transfer dealings. If De Jong is considered one of the final pieces in the United puzzle, Ten Hag will surely go out and attempt to get him.