Football rumours: Frenkie de Jong would prefer Chelsea over Manchester United

Thu, 04 Aug, 2022 - 09:13

By PA Sport Staff

What the papers say

Metro reports Frenkie de Jong, who has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, would prefer to relocate to West London and join Chelsea rather than sign for Manchester United. Barcelona recently agreed a fee with United for the Dutch midfielder, 25, but the Red Devils have so far been unable to convince him to move to the north-west.

The Blues are understood to be willing to offer Leicester defender Wesley Fofana a hefty pay rise. The Mail reports Chelsea want to pay the 21-year-old £200,000 per week to play for them, but the Foxes are not keen to let him go after he signed a new five-year deal in March.

Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo during the pre-season friendly match at Old Trafford — Cristiano Ronaldo turned out for his club on Sunday after missing their pre-season tour (Dave Thompson/PA)

Could a return to Europe be on the cards for Cristiano Ronaldo? The 37-year-old forward could leave Old Trafford for Atletico Madrid or Napoli, according to the Sun which cites AS. United boss Erik ten Hag described Ronaldo’s departure before the end of Sunday’s friendly against Rayo Vallecano as “unacceptable”.

Bournemouth are said to be close to signing goalkeeper Neto from Barcelona as they look to improve their squad before returning to Premier League action this weekend. The Telegraph says the 33-year-old Brazilian will add much-needed experience and depth at the back, where he will challenge Mark Travers and back-up Will Dennis.

Social media round-up

Leeds 'planning to pounce' on three stars including Liverpool and Arsenal target | @AlexCTurk https://t.co/syKWFVf4Ny

— Express Sport (@DExpress_Sport) August 4, 2022

Man Utd enquire over Alex Scott transfer with 18-year-old midfielder impressing at Championship side Bristol City https://t.co/nevKgxjONY

— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) August 4, 2022

Players to watch

Destiny Udogie: Fabrizio Romano reports Tottenham have begun talks with Udinese about signing the 19-year-old Italian left-back.

Charlie Savage: The Daily Mail writes that a number of Championship and League One clubs are interested in taking Manchester United’s 19-year-old Welsh midfielder on loan.