Manchester United have had a long-term interest in Frenkie de Jong, but it is "impossible" to seal a move for him in January, according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano.

De Jong was subject to repeated transfer speculation in the summer window regarding a potential reunion with former manager Erik ten Hag, and he has continued to be linked with a move to Old Trafford.

What is the latest news involving De Jong?

There are still said to be a whole host of English sides interested in a move for the Dutchman, with Spanish publication SPORT highlighting Man United and Chelsea as interested parties, although it is stated that only an "astronomical fee" would be enough to secure a move away from Barcelona.

ESPN also list Liverpool as potential suitors if the £232k-a-week earner were to leave Camp Nou, and their sources indicate that contact has been made with his representatives, as the Reds are currently in the market for a central-midfielder.

Despite the previous report indicating that his current club would be willing to let him leave, the United target has resisted attempts to offload him, and he recently told De Telegraaf of his desire to remain at the Catalonian club for another decade.

The 25-year-old has emerged as a consistent starter at Barcelona, featuring in 13 of the 14 La Liga games that have been played this season, which may dissuade Xavi from letting him leave the club any time soon.

What has Romano said about De Jong?

Romano believes that a deal to sign De Jong would be "impossible" for the Red Devils to make happen in the upcoming window, but states that this could change depending on the player's personal position in the summer.

The journalist told GIVEMESPORT: "For January, I think it is almost impossible, but for the summer it depends on the player, because Frenkie de Jong has always said no to any move, it's not just to Manchester United, he decided to stay at Barcelona, he's happy at Barcelona, if Frenkie changes his mind, then we will see."

Would De Jong be a good signing for Man United?

Earlier this season, the 45-time Netherlands international was dubbed "spectacular" by Xavi, and he has more than repaid his manager's faith in him, with a string of impressive performances in recent times.

De Jong could be exactly what United need in the holding central-midfield role, as he would offer so much to the team as a creative force, while Casemiro would take on the majority of the defensive duties.

As per FBref, the maestro has averaged 3.55 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes over the past year, placing him in the 89th percentile compared to his positional peers, highlighting his ability to pick out his teammates in promising areas of the pitch.

Christian Eriksen is the man that currently fills this role, however he is now 30-years-old, so De Jong is a more suitable long-term option for Ten Hag, and the manager should monitor how his situation continues to develop at Barcelona.