Ten Hag ‘relationship’ could lure £17m star to Old Trafford

Manchester United are more likely to sign Sergino Dest than Achraf Hakimi as Old Trafford boss Erik ten Hag ‘has a relationship’ with the Barcelona right-back, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Red Devils have not been afraid to splash the cash during the summer window, with close to £130million being spent on fresh faces, but further reinforcements could be drafted in ahead of the 11pm deadline on September 1.

What’s the latest news involving Dest and Hakimi?

According to Spanish sources, Manchester United have accelerated their plans to land Dest and ten Hag is optimistic of getting the deal over the line.

The report suggests that Barcelona are seeking close to £17million for the 17-cap United States international’s services, although they would be willing to negotiate an initial loan which has an obligation to buy.

It is understood that Manchester United have entered negotiations with the La Liga giants and looked to include Diogo Dalot as a makeweight in the transfer, but Dest’s current employers are only interested in a cash proposal.

Meanwhile, the Red Devils are also reportedly working on a move for Paris Saint-Germain full-back Hakimi.

However, ten Hag is facing competition from Barcelona for the 23-year-old, who still has four years remaining on his £170,000-per-week contract at the Parc des Princes.

What has Dean Jones said about the situation?

Jones believes Manchester United stand a better chance of bolstering their right-back options by sealing the arrival of Dest than Hakimi.

Although the transfer insider understands the American wants to remain at the Nou Camp, he feels Barcelona could force him to move on.

When asked whether Manchester United are more likely to sign Dest than Hakimi, Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “He is much more gettable and ten Hag has a relationship with him. Dest doesn’t seem to be in Barcelona’s plans for this season.

“It’s quite an emotional one for Dest because he doesn’t want to make this decision right now. But I think he’s going to be forced to make a decision in the next couple of days.”

Why is Dest of interest to Manchester United?

There are doubts over Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s future, with former club Crystal Palace mulling over whether to head to the negotiating table.

His departure would leave Manchester United with just one senior right-back, in the form of Dalot, so it is clear that strengthening is needed in that area of the pitch.

Dest is someone ten Hag knows well, having selected him 38 times during their spell together at Ajax.

The 21-year-old repaid the Dutchman’s faith by registering eight goal contributions, while he also got his hands on the Johan Cruyff Shield during that period.

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