Erik ten Hag is demanding Manchester United maintain their pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

The Mirror says United are ready to wait until the final day of the summer transfer window to sign De Jong.

The Dutch star is Ten Hag's top target as he looks to overhaul his squad after a hugely disappointing season but is publicly reluctant to move to Old Trafford.

Ten Hag, 52, is not giving up and is willing to hold out until the last second to sign gifted central midfielder De Jong, who was his 'favourite player' while managing at former club Ajax.

De Jong is embroiled in a contract stand-off with the cash-strapped Spanish giants, who owe him more than £17million in deferred wages, delaying the potential transfer to United.

He has openly stated he wants to stay at the Nou Camp, and has flown to Miami to participate in Barca's pre-season tour of the US - but sources close to the player have said he is in regular contact with Ten Hag and is happy to join United.