Erik Ten Hag To Intensify Talks With Frankie De Jong Following Paul Pogba Departure.

 Manchester United are allegedly optimistic of securing a £50 million deal for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong to replace Paul Pogba, who is leaving the club.

United are rumoured to have begun talks with the Catalan giants regarding a possible trade, with new manager Erik ten Hag in need of midfielders this summer.

However, after claiming earlier this week that he is already at his 'dream club,' the 25-year-old may need more convincing to go than Barca.

The financially troubled Spanish team wants to save money, and Xavi is said to be willing to let the Dutch midfielder leave.

READ MORE: Reactions As Manchester United Confirm Paul Pogba Departure After Six Years.

Despite the fact that the former Ajax midfielder would want to stay at the Nou Camp and fight for a spot in the team, new manager Erik ten Hag is anxious to sign him as a replacement for Paul Pogba, according to The Sun.

De Jong, meanwhile, told reporters earlier this week: 'I desire to stay with Barcelona. Barcelona is simply my ideal team. From a young age, as well. I simply mentioned it as well.

'Despite the fact that I had hoped for more in terms of prizes than I've received thus far, I've never regretted my decision.' But I've never looked back on my decision.'

The Holland international midfielder shone at Ajax under Ten Hag from 2016 to 2019 and is reported to be available for roughly £65 million if Barcelona can find a strong replacement for the 25-year-old.

This season, De Jong made 47 appearances for Barcelona across all competitions, scoring four goals from midfield.

De Jong joined Barcelona for £64 million from Ajax in 2019, but Pedri and Gavi are ahead of him in the pecking order, so he may have to make way in order for Barcelona to pursue targets like Robert Lewandowski.

After a disappointing season, United have a lot of work to do in this transfer window, with the new manager eager to overhaul his squad.

After confirming the departures of Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard, as well as Nemanja Matic, one area where the Red Devils are extremely light is in midfield.

In a statement, the club expressed its regret for their departures and wished them both well in their future endeavors.

Following Lingard's announcement, United said, "We'd also like to take this opportunity to thank Jesse for all of the memories he's helped create during his two decades here and wish him the best of luck in his future career."

And they also bid farewell to Pogba: 'Everyone at the club would like to congratulate Paul on his successful career, and thank him for his contributions to Manchester United.'