Erik ten Hag admits Frenkie de Jong would 'strengthen any squad'

Erik ten Hag has confessed Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong would ‘strengthen any squad’ in the world amid consistent links with Manchester United.

One of the longest transfer sagas of the summer window was United’s pursuit of De Jong, who was seen by many to be key to the way Ten Hag wanted to set up his Red Devils side.

In the end, the deal never materialised and Man Utd opted to sign Casemiro instead – a signing that has proved to be a roaring success at Old Trafford.

Speaking to the press ahead of his side’s Europa League clash with Barcelona on Thursday, Ten Hag seemed to stoke the rumour mill back into action with his comments regarding De Jong.

“In 2019, there was a lot of fascination with that Ajax team. Frenkie brought a lot of that fascination and he has developed over the following years in Spain,” Ten Hag explained.

“He’s a fantastic player and has become even better. Playing out from the back, he always has time. It was a pleasure working with him. He would strengthen any squad in the world. He’s got unique quality.”

While De Jong was, due to financial issues, deemed surplus to requirements by Barça earlier in the season he has found he way back into the team in recent months and become one of the club’s best, and most consistent, performers.