Manchester United are closely monitoring the situation of Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt, as reported by Sky Sport journalist Florian Plettenberg.With Raphael Varane set to leave when his contract expires at the end of the month, United are in the market for a new central defender. Recent reports suggest that De Ligt is back on their radar and could be available for the right offer.
Bayern Munich’s recent acquisition of centre-back Hiroki Ito from Stuttgart and ongoing negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen for Jonathan Tah could pave the way for De Ligt’s departure. Plettenberg describes De Ligt as having a ‘top mentality,’ and United manager Erik ten Hag remains a ‘big fan’ of the Dutchman, whom he coached at Ajax from 2017 to 2019.
Will Man Utd Sign Two Centre-Backs This Summer?
United are also in transfer negotiations with Everton for Jarrad Branthwaite after agreeing on personal terms with the player. Everton are asking for £70 million, but United will aim to reduce this fee with add-ons.
Branthwaite, a left-footed centre-back, has primarily played on the left side of central defense. It remains to be seen whether United will also pursue a right-footed centre-back, potentially opening the door for a reunion between Ten Hag and De Ligt.
De Ligt is highly regarded for his passing accuracy, boasting a 92 percent success rate in the Bundesliga last season. The 24-year-old also won 60 percent of his duels, with an average of 3.3 recoveries and 2.4 clearances per game. His familiarity with Ten Hag’s playing style would make him a seamless fit for United’s defensive setup.
However, the financial aspect of the deal could pose a challenge. United will need to make a significant investment to secure Branthwaite’s services, and a similar outlay might be required for De Ligt. Currently valued at £55 million by Transfermarkt, Bayern could demand a higher fee for his transfer.
Ultimately, United’s chances of signing De Ligt may hinge on their ability to raise funds through player sales first. If De Ligt is open to a move, United will need to act swiftly to bring the Dutchman to Old Trafford.Manchester United’s interest in Matthijs de Ligt, as reported by Florian Plettenberg, comes at a crucial time with Raphael Varane’s departure imminent. The potential signing of De Ligt, especially with Bayern Munich’s recent defensive acquisitions, suggests Bayern might be open to negotiations.
**Factors Influencing the De Ligt Transfer:**
1. **Bayern Munich’s New Defenders**: The arrivals of Hiroki Ito and possible signing of Jonathan Tah could make De Ligt’s departure more plausible.
2. **Ten Hag’s Connection**: Erik ten Hag’s previous success with De Ligt at Ajax enhances the appeal of this transfer. De Ligt’s understanding of Ten Hag’s tactics could ensure a smoother integration into the squad.
3. **De Ligt’s Performance**: His strong passing accuracy (92%) and solid defensive stats (60% duels won) highlight his suitability for United’s defense.
4. **Financial Considerations**: Bayern’s valuation and United’s budget constraints are critical. De Ligt is valued at £55 million, but Bayern might ask for more. United’s simultaneous pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite, who is valued at £70 million by Everton, complicates the financial aspect.
**Will United Sign Two Centre-Backs?**
United’s pursuit of both Branthwaite and De Ligt indicates a strategy to bolster their defense significantly. Branthwaite’s left-footedness and experience on the left side complement De Ligt’s right-footed playstyle, providing balance in central defense.
However, securing both deals will likely require United to manage their finances carefully, potentially through player sales or structured deals with add-ons.
**Conclusion:**
United’s ability to sign De Ligt will depend on Bayern’s willingness to sell and United’s financial maneuvering. If United can navigate these challenges, De Ligt’s reunion with Ten Hag could significantly strengthen their defensive lineup.
