Midfielder Frenkie de Jong of Barcelona has spoken out about the protracted transfer issue from last summer, which almost led to his joining Manchester United.
The Red Devils, who had recently appointed his former manager at Ajax, Erik ten Hag, courted the Dutchman in 2022.
Ten Hag made it known that De Jong was one of his top priorities after arriving at Old Trafford. The midfielder was reluctant to leave Camp Nou despite Man Utd's willingness to pay Barcelona handsomely, especially as he was still due millions in back pay.
Joan Laporta, the club president, stated throughout the drama that he wanted De Jong to stay but acknowledged that he could have been traded for the proper sum.
De Jong said to Voetbal International that he never gave any thought to the possibility of being ejected from Barça.
"That has always been obvious to me, even last summer when there was some turbulence. It wasn't as tough for me last summer because I always knew I wanted to stay in Barcelona, De Jong said.
Additionally, I had just extended my contract [in 2020], so I always felt in charge and free to make my own decisions.
"For that reason, I decided not to worry about it. I'm happy where I am and anticipate continuing to play for Barcelona in the upcoming season.
De Jong contributed significantly to Barcelona's La Liga victory this season, while Man Utd also had success without him.
Christian Eriksen and Casemiro, who eventually joined the Red Devils, developed a potent midfield tandem and assisted the team in ending its six-year trophy drought.
In the play-offs for the knockout phase of the Europa League, Man Utd also eliminated De Jong's Barcelona.
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