Chelsea are expected to make an “imminent offer” for Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong, according to Sport.

The Catalan newspaper claims that Thomas Tuchel’s side have “woken up” and are likely to table their own proposal for de Jong “immediately”.

It is believed that the Blues initially enquired about Dutchman a few weeks ago, during co-owner Todd Boehly’s first meeting with the Barca hierarchy, but they have since focused on recruiting defenders. However, it appears they have now turned their attention back towards signing de Jong.

Sport do, though, claim United “have not thrown in the towel”. They have already agreed an €80m (£67m) transfer fee but persuading the player has been very difficult. They are willing to pay de Jong’s sizeable salary but he is not convinced about making the switch to Old Trafford.

In contrast, Chelsea are said to have two aces up their sleeve. The fact they have Champions League football and are based in London are both strong factors that will tempt de Jong into joining them instead.