Manchester United could make a move for former Manchester City star Nigel de Jong in the summer, as the Dutch midfielder is currently locked in a contract deadlock with AC Milan.
The 30-year-old encountered some controversial moments during his time at City. He was at the club for three years from 2009 to 2012.
During this period, he was part of the Manchester City team that finally ended the league title drought by lifting the Premier League while also managing to become successful in the FA Cup. Since the move to Milan,de Jong has failed to win any major trophy.
More importantly, his contract comes to an end in the summer and Milan are not ready to offer him the same £ 70,000 per week wages that he earns now. This has led to an impasse in the contract negotiations and United are looking to take advantage of it by offering him a new deal. Even though the club have signed a defensive midfielder in the form of Daley Blind only in the summer, it is understood that Louis Van Gaal is left concerned about the club’s defensive players amidst poor form this season. After strengthening the attack significantly, the club will be focusing on reinforcing the defence with signings like de Jong.
United are not the only club looking to sign the Dutch midfielder, as it is believed that Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri also wants a reunion with the player who he brought from City when he was the Milan manager. Van Gaal knowsde Jong extremely well from his time at the Dutch national team.De Jong is understood to be looking at only around £ 50,000 per week in wages and a three-year contract. This should prove attractive for a top club like United with massive financial power.