Former Liverpool and Aston Villa striker Stan Collymore has advised Manchester United to abandon their pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong and instead focus on signing two Arsenal players if the club is taken over by Qatari bidders.
De Jong, who was one of Erik ten Hag’s top targets last year, has made it clear that he is happy at Barcelona and has no intention of leaving the club. Despite this, United are said to have retained their interest in the midfielder ahead of the summer transfer window.
However, Collymore believes that United should give up on De Jong and look for alternative targets. He argues that if the club is taken over by Qatari owners, they will have the financial power to sign the next global superstar, such as Jude Bellingham.
Collymore also suggests that United could consider signing Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard or Bukayo Saka in the summer. He believes that United’s financial power would make the Gunners and the players themselves stop and think.
The former striker argues that United should not pursue players who do not want to move to their club. He cites Chelsea’s experience with Mykhailo Mudryk, who reportedly wanted to join Arsenal before Chelsea offered him a contract.
Collymore believes that United are a big enough club to find the next best midfielder, even if De Jong is not interested in joining them. He suggests that United should move on and find an even better player if that is the position Ten Hag is prioritising.
In conclusion, Collymore advises United to focus on alternative targets if De Jong is not interested in joining them. He believes that the club’s financial power will enable them to sign the next global superstar and suggests that they consider signing Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard or Bukayo Saka in the summer.