Dutch international midfielder Frenkie de Jong could be in line for a change of scenery after reports have begun to surface that the Barcelona midfielder is unsettled in Catalunya, and has begun to ‘fade away’ at the club, with Manchester United possibly set to benefit.

As reported by Spanish outlet Marca and cited by Stretty News, De Jong is said to be ‘not completely happy at the club’ and could even consider leaving this summer despite Barça manager Xavi denying reports that the Dutchman is potentially on unsure footing at the Camp Nou.

This certainly could be of interest to United who is unquestionably going to be in the hunt for more than one midfielder this summer after both Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matić are set for exits from Old Trafford in just a few month’s time.

But the developments unfolding at United regarding the official appointment of current AFC Ajax boss Erik ten Hag could increase rumors that De Jong would be an ideal transfer target as the club will look to retool under the Dutch tactician.

One such player that United could move for is Leeds United hero Kalvin Phillips, but links between De Jong and Ten Hag, who so successfully worked together at Ajax previously, could mean that he may leap into the head of the transfer queue.

Manchester United target Frenkie De Jong ‘fading away’ at Barcelona; has not ruled out summer exit

BARCELONA, SPAIN – DECEMBER 04: Frenkie De Jong of FC Barcelona runs with the ball during the La Liga Santander match between FC Barcelona and Real Betis at Camp Nou on December 04, 2021 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Further reports via Forbes suggest that one of the reasons De Jong could leave in the summer, with United sure to circle should that be the case, comes in the wake of the club deciding to sack former manager Ronald Koeman before hiring club legend Xavi as his replacement.

It is said that De Jong and Koeman had formed a special relationship during their time together and his status under the legendary Dutch midfielder saw him rise to untouchable status at Barcelona, but since Xavi has come in, Barcelona youngsters Pedri and Gavi have risen to prominence, often at his expense.

With an ever-reducing role at the club, a fresh start to life could be just what the doctor ordered for the Dutch international, which could even involve a re-formed midfield bond with friend and international teammate Donny van de Beek, who could also be set for another chance at United once Ten Hag officially arrives.