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Manchester United look set to rival Tottenham Hotspur for the services of Ajax starlet Frenkie De Jong, according to The Sun.

What's the word?

Tottenham are set to face increased competition in the market for the services of Ajax ace Frenkie De Jong as Manchester United are also expressing an interest in the Netherlands international, The Sun reports.

Scouts from the Red Devils were in attendance to watch the 21-year-old on international duty in the UEFA Nations League clash with France earlier this month, as they consider making a swoop for the highly-rated midfielder.

Jose Mourinho is said to be keen to add a versatile midfielder to his squad in January and a source confirmed United's interest in the reports, which suggests that Spurs could face a stern fight in the hunt for his signature.

What was said?

"The club decided to take a look at him as they have been getting rave reviews from elsewhere. Jose and the staff like the look of him. He can play in a few different roles and he looks comfortable wherever, which is a big plus.

"The scouts were already sure he is the real deal but his display against France only intensified that belief even further. He is a top class talent and it is clear to see why so many of the big teams in the Premier League and around Europe want him."

Should Spurs swoop?

Tottenham are in need of additions in the January transfer window, shown by their poor run of form over the course of recent weeks, and a versatile addition like De Jong would be the perfect fit - particularly with continued speculation regarding the future of Mousa Dembele.

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However, the issue is whether Spurs have the finances to compete with the likes of Manchester United in the market for De Jong due to the implications of their stadium move, which has of course been delayed, and that may limit the movement.

What Spurs can offer though is a more stable environment than with Mourinho's side, particularly given Mauricio Pochettino's record of getting the best out of young players under his stewardship.