Manchester United are interested in the Brazilian, but the club are focusing on improving their midfield before agreeing a deal for Ajax striker Anthony. 90min reported United's interest in February and March, before appointing new manager Erik ten Hag, who was brought in by the Dutch champions. Ten Hag took over as United's new manager last month, and the two played a key role in shaping his game while working together in Amsterdam and have had a profound influence on Anthony's playing career to this day. He made 33 appearances for the club last season, scoring 12 goals and making 10 assists. United's interest in Anthony has never waned. Ten Hag's appointment just confirms their focus on the player. Ten Hag is interested in signing the 22-year-old before next season and United are in regular contact with the player's representatives.
However, United's team changes will take place in stages. The midfield is a top priority for Ten Hag's team reconstruction program. The club has been linked with a move to Roma. Paul Pogba Juventus and Juan Mata have been ruled out of the midfield by Jesse Lingard, all on a free transfer. Under the new deal for Netherlands international Frankie De Jong, the club are expected to make significant progress this week and believe they can finally sign the Barcelona midfielder. Despite the slowdown in recent days due to the representation of Dutch international De Gea in the National League, Manchester United are hoping to push for a move to Old Trafford after the international break. De Jong will face the Netherlands and Wales on Tuesday night.
Ten Hag sees De Jong as important in his plans to bring his style of play to the club, and United are now focusing on signing the player with Barcelona. "Barcelona are here to help with their financial situation. Money is needed to sign new players and continue with the remaining plans for the summer transfer window. De Jong is considered to be one of the few clubs who is willing to part ways with someone who could pay a significant amount for the club. After a brief stint at Ajax, De Jong opened up to reunite with Ten Hag. United are set to leave Cristiano Ericsson on a free transfer at the end of the month, but face stiff competition from Tottenham Hotspur and other clubs. Eriksen is currently considering the various options he has on the table before deciding on his next transfer.