Ten Hag could finally sign long-term target, with La Liga ruling set to work in Man Utd's favour

Erik ten Hag could finally sign Frenkie de Jong after La Liga ordered Barcelona to slash an enormous chunk off their wage bill before next season, according to reports.

The United boss arrived at Old Trafford last summer and in one window spent some £229million to revitalise a squad that had just recorded its lowest-ever Premier League points tally.

In one summer spending spree, Ten Hag brought in Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez, Christian Eriksen, Antony, Casemiro and Martin Dubravka.

While Eriksen and Casemiro’s arrivals have greatly improved United’s midfield, one player Ten Hag failed to land was De Jong.

United chased the signing of the 25-year-old throughout the summer, with Ten Hag keen to rekindle his relationship with the midfielder he coached at Ajax.

However, at the time, both the player and the club blocked any transfer to the Premier League.

However, given Barca’s dire financial state, United could be given another shot at signing the Netherlands international.

Barca told to slash wage bill

According to Mundo Deportivo Barca have been ordered to slash their wage bill by £177million in the summer, which could offer hope to United and others in the pursuit of the Catalan club’s brightest stars.

La Liga have reportedly insisted Barca will have to make further financial sacrifices if they are to comply with the league’s rules.

Sergio Busquets and Sergi Roberto both see their contracts at the Nou Camp expire at the end of the season, which would free up some cash.

However, more outgoings may be needed.

De Jong and winger Ansu Fati, who have both been linked with Manchester United, are two players who may reportedly be sold to reduce the wage bill.