Manchester United will have to overcome an impossible task if they are to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie De Jong on deadline day, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.

Erik Ten Hag has been a busy man since arriving at Old Trafford but is now running out of time to bolster his squad further, with the window set to close at 11pm.

What is the latest on De Jong?

Hopes were high in the North West when United reportedly agreed a £63 million fee for the signing of the 25-year-old earlier this summer.

But, with De Jong caught up in a dispute with Barcelona over deferred payments, a deal never looked like an easy task for the Red Devils.

The former Ajax star was Ten Hag’s top priority this summer but United have now reportedly admitted defeat in their efforts to sign him.

Meanwhile, United have completed the signing of Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro, with the Brazilian making the switch after winning five Champions League titles in the Spanish capital.

A deal for Ajax striker Antony was also announced earlier this week, after an £85 million fee was agreed with the Dutch giants.

Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka is set to arrive at Old Trafford to provide David De Gea with some much-needed competition after Dean Henderson’s departure.

What has Sheth said on United’s business?

Sheth understands that completing a deal for De Jong on deadline day will be close to impossible for the Red Devils.

He told GIVEMESPORT: “He's been their number one target throughout the entire window. But as it stands, the information I'm getting right now is it's nigh-on-impossible that De Jong will be moving to United.”

Have United had a good transfer window?

It has been chaotic and devoid of any real plan, but United do appear to have stumbled their way to a decent summer of business.

They have strengthened in all areas necessary. Lisandro Martinez has added options at centre-back, Tyrell Malacia will provide Luke Shaw with competition and Casemiro will finally bring solidity to the midfield and protection to the back-four.

Meanwhile, Antony has previously shone under Ten Hag, scoring 22 goals and providing 20 assists under his stewardship at Ajax.

If he can recapture that form, United could be back on their way to a potent attack.