Manchester United have reached an agreement on personal terms with their top transfer target. Matthijs de Ligt, as their pursuit of the Bayern Munich centre-back nears completion.
Bayern Munich is demanding a £42 million fee for the 24-year-old Netherlands international, and United are optimistic about finalizing the deal. De Ligt, who has yet to feature for his country at Euro 2024. Is enthusiastic about reuniting with his former Ajax manager, Erik ten Hag.
It is understood that De Ligt and Ten Hag have already had direct talks, with the United manager intensifying his efforts to convince the defender. Ten Hag outlined his vision for the club, bolstered by the FA Cup win that secured his position despite a challenging season.
Last week, key figures at Old Trafford, including part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, decided to activate the one-year extension clause in Ten Hag’s contract, keeping him at the helm until 2026. Ten Hag envisions De Ligt as the cornerstone of United’s defense. Recalling their successful run to the Champions League semi-finals with Ajax when De Ligt was just 19.
Bayern Munich will not obstruct De Ligt’s transfer if United meet their valuation. The player has focused solely on moving to Old Trafford. Newly-appointed Bayern boss Vincent Kompany is set to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah as a replacement for De Ligt, following Bayern’s first Bundesliga title miss in 12 years under Thomas Tuchel.
United’s strategy includes signing two centre-backs before the summer transfer window closes on August 30.
The Red Devils have already had two bids rejected for Everton starlet Jarrad Branthwaite. With the latest offer totaling £50 million. The club has also not commented on rumors of an agreement with Lille for £40 million-rated Leny Yoro. An 18-year-old centre-back, who reportedly prefers a move to Real Madrid, with Liverpool and PSG also interested.
Ten Hag bid farewell to Raphael Varane at the end of last season following the expiration of his contract. United are in discussions to offer veteran Jonny Evans a short-term extension. Currently, only Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Willy Kambwala remain under contract.
Maguire has been linked with a potential transfer, while Lindelof could also be sold to raise funds. United are leveraging their relationship with De Ligt’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, to finalize the deal.
Ten Hag’s squad returned to their Carrington training base on Monday for pre-season training, gearing up for the new season with renewed determination.
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