Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has explained his pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

United are in Barcelona for Thursday's Europa League playoff first-leg.

Ten Hag said: "Frenkie is an incredible player. For every club in the whole world, he will strengthen the squad because he has a unique quality. If you can get him in the squad your team will be stronger.

"We (Ajax) had a class in 2019 that was a team with a lot of fascination. He brings a lot of fascination and he develops, and in Spain he became even better.

"He's a fantastic player. He plays out from the back, he always has time and it was a pleasure to work with him."

Earlier, Barca coach Xavi insisted that De Jong is happy at the club after all the speculation over his future last summer when an issue over unpaid wages at his club proved a stumbling block in negotiations.

"I think he was really glad," said Xavi. "He wanted to stay with us, there was not a doubt. He is our player and I'm really happy with his leadership and performance. I think Frenkie is enjoying being on the pitch and that is the most important thing."