Manchester United are chasing Matthijs de Ligt

Conformable Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United are considering a move for Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich. This news comes as no surprise to United fans, who know Erik ten Hag’s penchant for signing players he previously coached at Ajax. Ten Hag’s first transfer window saw Antony and Lisandro Martinez from Ajax, followed by Andre Onana the following summer, players who thrived under Erik ten Hag at the Dutch club.

If the deal for De Ligt goes through, Ten Hag will have the same central defensive partnership that thrived during his tenure at Ajax. De Ligt earned his fair share of fame as a top prospect in Europe after leading Ajax to the semi-finals of the Champions League and a domestic double at just 19 years of age. Despite interest at the time from various clubs, including United, he chose Juventus before changing ship. to Bayern Munich in 2022. Now under newly announced manager Vincent Kompany, De Ligt appears to be surplus to requirements at the Bavarian giants and has reportedly been included on the transfer list.

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Bayern have recently bolstered their defense by adding Hiroki Ito and are also negotiating for Jonathan Tah. Although De Ligt’s exit price is unknown, Manchester United are aware that he will cost him significantly less than Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, who is also being speculated for a big-money move to Manchester United.

For Manchester United, De Ligt is seen as a realistic target to bolster their defence, especially after Raphael Varane left on a free agent and both Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez suffered injuries last season. Ten Hag, who saw De Ligt’s best form at Ajax, would welcome a reunion. The Dutch defender has been linked with United on several occasions, but this is his first under Ten Hag and INEOS. Reuniting De Ligt with Ten Hag could significantly strengthen United’s defence. De Ligt is experienced and talented, which makes him a promising addition to Manchester United’s foundation.

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