Manchester United have been given a boost in their pursuits of Barcelona duo Frenkie de Jong and Ansu Fati. La Liga is demanding that the Catalan giants significantly reduce their wage bill. The Spanish club’s dire financial situation has been widely publicized for some time. It was one of the factors that led to the departure of seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi ahead of the 2021/22 season.
Man Utd gets double Barcelona boost as La Liga chief demands £177m
Their predicament has not been completely resolved in recent seasons. The Barcelona hierarchy still has much work to do. According to Mundo Deportivo, in an ongoing dispute with La Liga. The league’s chief Javier Tebas has told the Catalans that they must reduce their total wage bill by more than €200 million (£177 million). There are several paths the club could take to accomplish this. But the most obvious would be to sell a portion of Xavi’s first-team squad.
Sergio Busquets and Sergio Roberto’s departures would certainly help in that regard, as the pair recently entered the final six months of their respective contracts. However, they may have to part ways with other high-earners as well. This could lead to United pursuing a couple of players they have previously targeted. After bringing in Erik ten Hag, the Red Devils were heavily linked with a move for Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong. Interest in him is said to be continuing. Barcelona may be willing to sell him to meet La Liga’s wage demands.
One of his current teammates could potentially join him at Old Trafford. According to recent reports in Spain, the Red Devils are one of several clubs interested in young forward Ansu Fati. Jorge Mendes, Cristiano Ronaldo’s former agent, has reportedly approached potential suitors about a deal. While Xavi is keen to keep hold of the 20-year-old. His contract is set to expire in the summer of 2027. He is arguably one of Catalonia’s most valuable assets and would be a huge help as the club attempts to solve its current financial woes.
