DONE DEAL: Matthijs de Ligt now in London Carrington to sign 5yr deal with Manchester United, Jersey number approved as personal terms was reached yesterday – Welcome Big player
Matthijs de Ligt maintained his silence regarding his future amidst growing speculation about a potential move to Manchester United. The Bayern Munich center-back has recently been the subject of numerous reports linking him to a transfer to Old Trafford. Manchester United, under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag, is keen on bolstering their defensive line during the summer transfer window, and De Ligt is seen as a prime target.
Currently, De Ligt is with the Netherlands national team, who have successfully advanced to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. The Dutch team secured their spot in the next round with a commanding 3-0 victory over Romania in their last-16 match on Tuesday night.
Following the match, De Ligt was seen in the mixed zone at the Allianz Arena, which doubles as his home ground for Bayern Munich. The mixed zone is typically where players engage with the media and respond to their questions. However, De Ligt chose not to follow this tradition.
According to journalist Julian Buhl, De Ligt walked through the mixed zone without stopping to interact with reporters. He did provide a brief explanation for his decision to remain silent. “I did not play and cannot say much,” De Ligt remarked on Monday night. So far, De Ligt has not appeared in any of the Netherlands’ four matches at Euro 2024, as coach Ronald Koeman has opted for Stefan de Vrij to partner Virgil van Dijk in the defense.
Manchester United remains optimistic about securing De Ligt’s signature this summer. Ten Hag and his management team are looking to bring in two new center-backs before the transfer window closes. This need has become more pressing following the departure of Raphael Varane, who left the club as a free agent, and the potential exit of Victor Lindelof, should a suitable offer be made.
De Ligt’s history with Ten Hag is well-known, as they worked together during their time at Ajax. The defender moved to Bayern Munich in 2022 from Juventus in a transfer deal worth £68 million. His connection with Ten Hag and his proven track record make him a valuable addition to Manchester United’s defensive lineup.
As the summer transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether Manchester United can finalize the acquisition of De Ligt. His presence would undoubtedly strengthen their defense, fulfilling one of Ten Hag’s key objectives for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, De Ligt’s silence on the matter leaves fans and media alike speculating about his potential move to Old Trafford.
