Overview
- Stam told Covers.com that De Jong is his dream January addition and has been on United's shortlist since Erik ten Hag's tenure.
- He cited his experience working with De Jong at Ajax, praising the midfielder's comfort on the ball, creativity, and ability to dictate play.
- Reports note the pursuit stretches back to 2022, yet De Jong's contract extension at Barcelona to 2029 makes a winter move difficult.
- The push comes as Carrick oversees an interim spell with United seeking greater control and identity in central midfield.
- Stam also named Brighton's Carlos Baleba as a fit for Old Trafford, with prior links tempered by a reported £100m fee and suggestions major midfield business may wait until summer.