Jack Wilshere insists Manchester United need Frenkie de Jong more than Chelsea and compares the Barcelona midfielder to Andrea Pirlo.
The Netherlands star, 25, has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer – but the deal has become complicated.
Despite agreeing a fee which could rise to £70million with United, Barcelona have publicly argued their determination to keep De Jong.
It has also been reported that the Dutchman is unwilling to leave, with the LaLiga giants owing him £17m in deferred payments from the COVID pandemic.
Chelsea have now entered the race and new owner Todd Boehly is in Barcelona to conduct talks with Spanish club.
Blues defenders Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso could be offered as makeweights, along with £51m, to hijack United’s bid for De Jong – who wants Champions League football.
Ex-Arsenal midfielder Wilshere insists United are crying out for a player like De Jong and defeat to Chelsea in this race would represent a huge blow.
Despite a difficult three years at Barcelona, Wilshere remains a big admirer of De Jong and compares the midfielder to Italy legend Pirlo.
“Man United need him more than Chelsea need him,” Wilshere told talkSPORT.
“I think he’s a great player, I watch him a lot. He’s very comfortable and silky on the ball, I think he would suit England, actually.
“He’s a bit like Pirlo but he’s got the ability to glide past players.”
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