In a stunning development that could reshape Manchester United's midfield for the upcoming season, two major transfer targets have emerged as priority signings for manager Erik ten Hag.
Midfield Revolution at Old Trafford
The Red Devils are preparing for a significant summer overhaul, with Portuguese international Ruben Neves and Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong identified as the central figures in their recruitment strategy. Both players represent the type of technical quality and tactical intelligence that Ten Hag believes can transform United's engine room.
Neves: The Proven Premier League Performer
Ruben Neves, currently plying his trade with Al-Hilal, brings extensive Premier League experience from his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers. The 27-year-old midfielder has long been admired by United's recruitment team for his exceptional passing range, leadership qualities, and set-piece expertise.
Sources close to the club suggest that Neves represents a more attainable target than some alternatives, with his situation in Saudi Arabia making a return to English football increasingly likely.
De Jong: The Long-Standing Admiration
Frenkie de Jong's potential move to Manchester United represents one of football's longest-running transfer sagas. The Dutch international has been a persistent target since Ten Hag's arrival, with the manager viewing his former Ajax protege as the ideal conductor for his preferred style of play.
Despite previous complications in negotiations with Barcelona, renewed optimism exists within Old Trafford corridors that a deal could finally materialise this summer, particularly given the Catalan club's ongoing financial pressures.
Strategic Transfer Approach
United's pursuit of both players demonstrates a clear strategic shift in their transfer policy. Rather than focusing on a single marquee signing, the club appears to be building a comprehensive shortlist of quality options to ensure they secure at least one world-class midfielder.
The potential arrival of either Neves or de Jong would signal a significant upgrade to United's creative capabilities, addressing what has been identified as a critical weakness in their squad structure.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see which of these high-profile targets ultimately dons the famous red shirt next season.
