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Even after securing the services of Leny Yoro from LOSC Lille, Manchester United are keen on strengthening their defense further by signing another central defender. Their primary target is Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt, but the negotiations are dragging on.
Reports indicate that the 24-year-old Dutch defender has agreed to a five-year contract with Manchester United, where he would earn around £170,000 per week. Over the duration of his contract, this would amount to approximately £44.2 million.
According to German outlet BILD, Manchester United have made an initial offer of €35 million for the former Juventus star, but Bayern Munich are holding out for €50 million. Despite already having Yoro, Manchester United appear willing to be patient in their pursuit of de Ligt.
Manchester United’s negotiating team, led by Dan Ashworth, understands that they hold a strategic advantage. Bayern Munich’s refusal to sell de Ligt is hindering their own plans to acquire Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen. Manchester United seem to be leveraging this situation to force Bayern’s hand.
De Ligt is a significant asset. At just 24, he has already amassed considerable experience, having captained Ajax at 19 and played for top clubs in Italy and Germany. His familiarity with Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, from their time together at Ajax, should ease his transition to the Premier League.
Under ten Hag’s guidance, de Ligt would likely receive the support and confidence needed to become one of the league’s top defenders. Although his career trajectory hasn’t fully met initial expectations, de Ligt is far from his peak years. A move to Old Trafford could be the catalyst for reaching his full potential.
At Manchester United, de Ligt is expected to form a formidable partnership with Lisandro Martinez in the heart of defense. This acquisition makes perfect sense for Manchester United, and the club is hopeful that Bayern Munich will accept a reasonable offer for the Dutch international.
