Frenkie de Jong reveals as speculation grows that the Dutch maestro has finally agreed to join Manchester United

After years of rumours, failed breakthroughs and endless transfer-window drama, Frenkie de Jong’s long-running link with Manchester United appears to be edging toward a long-awaited resolution. In a twist that has surprised fans across Europe, the Dutch midfielder’s reported change of heart is said to have nothing to do with finances, status or outside pressure. Instead, it has been shaped by the influence of one Manchester United player.

That player is Matthijs de Ligt.

Sources familiar with the situation claim de Jong’s stance has been transformed by private conversations with his Netherlands teammate, whose revival under Rúben Amorim has strengthened belief in United’s long-term direction. What once felt like an uncertain leap is now said to feel like a decision rooted in conviction, both personally and professionally.

De Jong is believed to have made it clear that money was never the deciding factor. Rather, it was de Ligt’s experiences, honesty and belief in the project at Old Trafford that shifted his perspective and reignited his interest in a move that once seemed destined never to happen.

Manchester United’s pursuit of de Jong has become one of the most persistent sagas of the modern era. From Erik ten Hag’s early tenure to multiple summer windows filled with optimism and disappointment, the transfer always appeared close without ever crossing the line. Barcelona’s financial problems, de Jong’s loyalty to the club and United’s own instability combined to stall progress time and again, until many believed the door had closed for good.

The arrival of Amorim has quietly altered that landscape. His clear tactical identity, emphasis on technical control and commitment to building around elite profiles have reshaped the atmosphere at the club. According to reports, this renewed clarity has played a role in convincing de Jong that United are no longer drifting, but moving with purpose.

Still, those close to the talks insist that de Ligt’s role has been decisive. The two share a deep connection forged at Ajax and reinforced on international duty, representing a generation defined by intelligence, composure and tactical understanding. De Ligt’s journey through Europe’s elite clubs before arriving at United has given de Jong something more tangible than promises or projections. He has been able to speak openly about the club’s direction, the standards being set and the sense that something meaningful is taking shape.

De Ligt’s growing authority at the heart of United’s defence has already become central to the team’s new identity, and his confidence in the project appears to have rubbed off on his compatriot. For de Jong, that belief seems to have carried more weight than any presentation from executives or agents.

From a footballing perspective, de Jong is viewed as an almost perfect fit for Amorim’s ideas. His ability to operate under pressure, carry the ball through tight spaces and control the tempo of matches addresses a long-standing weakness in United’s midfield. His understanding of positional play allows him to adapt seamlessly, whether dropping deep to build play or stepping forward to dictate attacks. Rather than leading through volume, he leads through balance, rhythm and decision-making, qualities that often elevate an entire team.

With de Ligt anchoring the defence and de Jong orchestrating midfield transitions, United would suddenly boast a Dutch core built on trust, chemistry and elite footballing intelligence. Internally, there is a sense that this potential move feels different from previous attempts. This time, the club’s hierarchy are said to be fully aligned with Amorim’s vision, prioritising targeted, strategic recruitment over reactive signings.

Crucially, United are no longer trying to sell the idea emotionally. The belief is that de Jong has already reached that conclusion himself.

Barcelona remain hesitant to part with a player of his calibre, but ongoing financial pressures continue to influence their position. The need to balance wages and raise funds has reportedly softened their stance, particularly if a carefully structured offer is presented in January. Talks are expected to progress discreetly, with all sides eager to avoid the media frenzy that derailed earlier negotiations.

Among supporters, the mood is one of cautious optimism. Many see de Jong as the missing piece in a midfield that has struggled for control against top-level opposition. Yet what excites fans most is not just the calibre of the player, but the reason behind his reported decision. The idea that a world-class footballer is choosing United because he believes in a teammate and a shared project signals a meaningful shift in how the club is perceived.

United are no longer pleading for stars to join them. They are beginning to be chosen.

If the move is completed, it would represent more than a high-profile signing. It would symbolise renewed credibility, a clear footballing identity and a squad being shaped around intelligence rather than impulse. With de Ligt leading at the back and de Jong controlling the midfield, Manchester United would look closer to a cohesive elite European side, not just in ambition, but in execution.

Ultimately, de Jong’s reported decision is not about wages or reputation. It is about belief — belief inspired by a teammate who has already taken the step and now sees something worth building. Matthijs de Ligt didn’t simply persuade him to reconsider Manchester United. He convinced him that the future there is real. And if this deal goes through in January, it may be remembered as one of the most influential player-driven transfers the Premier League has seen in years.