Manchester United target Frenkie De Jong has already told the club that he wants to remain with Barcelona, but the player could still change his mind, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Erik ten Hag has endured a frustrating summer window, and an even worse start to the Premier League season, so will be determined to strengthen ahead of the September 1 deadline.

What is the latest news on Frenkie de Jong?

Hopes were high at Old Trafford when the Red Devils reportedly had a £63 million bid accepted for De Jong earlier in the summer.

However, some concerns began to emerge when it was revealed that the 25-year-old was in the midst of a dispute over deferred wages with Barcelona, potentially delaying the deal.

It was also reported that De Jong favoured a move to Chelsea if he were to leave the Camp Nou, with the Blues now also in the race to sign him this summer.

The saga took another twist last week when it was revealed that Joan Laporta and the rest of the Barcelona board were claiming the contract given to the £164,000 per-week player by their predecessors was illegal.

Meanwhile, United have attempted to sign Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot, although that deal now appears to be close to collapse with the two parties far apart when it comes to personal terms.

What has Romano said on De Jong?

Romano understands that De Jong’s preference is to remain a Barcelona player and that the message has been sent to his agent, the Catalan giants and any interested clubs.

The transfer guru also claims that United are likely not the only outfit who want to take the Netherlands international this summer.

Romano told GIVEMESPORT: “From what I'm told, the player is still telling his agents, Barcelona and all the clubs approaching him that he wants to continue there. So, in a few moments, he could change his mind and maybe it could change. But as of now, he's still focusing on Barca. I'm not so sure that it's only Man United who are in for Frenkie De Jong.”

What's next for United?

The Athletic reported on Tuesday that United’s pursuit of Rabiot was close to collapse, leaving them scrambling for alternatives late in the window.

The publication claims that other players being looked at range from Real Madrid stalwart Casemiro to Brighton and Hove Albion youngster Moises Caicedo.

Concerningly, the report also states that United are only just in the final stages of deciding where to spend their budget, with less than two weeks of the window remaining.