Man United have obvious Frenkie de Jong transfer response Ruben Amorim cannot afford to ignore

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Frenkie de Jong is once again being linked with a move to Manchester United. The Dutch midfielder was heavily linked with United in the summer of 2022, having worked with then-Reds boss Erik ten Hag at Ajax. United agreed a fee with Barcelona in June 2022; however, a move to Old Trafford never materialised, and De Jong stayed put in Catalonia. Now, reports in Spanish publication Fichajes claim that the 27-year-old is back on United’s radar ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer transfer window. The Reds' midfield will need strengthening, with Christian Eriksen set to leave, Casemiro ageing and Kobbie Mainoo being linked with a move away to ease United's PSR constraints. But other areas of the pitch will be of greater concern to Ruben Amorim. Attacking reinforcements are essential this summer with the Reds having played almost as many games in the Premier League this season (33) as they have goals scored (38). Signing a new goalkeeper has also become a priority, with both Andre Onana and Altay Bayındır making numerous mistakes in a troubled campaign. It's become clear that Amorim cannot trust either of his two main keepers. Another error-prone season between the sticks must not happen again. One other area which will be essential to how much success United's Portuguese head coach may enjoy is at wing-back. Patrick Dorgu has already proven to be a positive signing, and Harry Amas has looked promising in fairness. His rise could save United some money in that area if he continues to develop. But Diogo Dalot needs replacing, Luke Shaw has barely played due to injury, and Noussair Mazraoui appears to be the club's only reliable option on the right. With those factors considered, the Reds suddenly look increasingly light. It's why the signing of De Jong would make little sense this summer. Yes, he would offer greater control in midfield and may improve United's creativity. And yet there must still be question marks over whether he could adapt to the physicality of Premier League football. It's a concern which is surely too big when considering how much United need to get their summer transfer business right. Here at the Manchester Evening News, we’re dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis. Make sure you don’t miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe. You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day’s biggest stories. And finally, if you’d rather listen to our expert analysis then make sure to check out our Manchester is Red podcast, featuring The Samuel Luckhurst Show and The Midweek Debate. Our shows are available on all podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and you can also watch along on YouTube.