FORMER Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal claims Frenkie de Jong’s price tag is significantly below his true value.
Van Gaal manages the midfielder with the Netherlands and is a big fan of the 25-year-old.
Louis van Gaal believes Frenkie de Jong is worth £96million
De Jong has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United
Because of that he believes De Jong should be one of the most expensive players in the world – yet Barcelona want just £65million to let him go.
United, however, are unwilling to match that price and are hopeful of landing the Dutchman for just £50m given Barcelona’s financial woes.
But their former manager has not helped their pursuit with his recent comments on De Jong.
Van Gaal said: “Frenkie de Jong brings extra quality to this team and that’s why he’s worth €112m (£96m).”
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Van Gaal has been outspoken about a number of topics relating to United in recent weeks but did show support for new boss Erik ten Hag.
Although he previously warned his compatriot against moving to Old Trafford he now backs the manager to be successful.
He said: “There is now a new leadership.
“It was (Ed) Woodward and now it is Richard Arnold and that can make the difference. So we have to wait and see.
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“He (Ten Hag) has a lot of confidence. So who am I to say something about that?”
Van Gaal also warned Ajax defender Jurrien Timber to carefully consider making a move to United amid transfer links.
He said: “I think a player with his qualities can play in the Prem. That’s not a problem.
“If he has to make this big step now, that’s the question.
“(If he does not play) then he is not so wise, I think. He has to play.”
