Manchester United is reportedly close to finalizing a deal to acquire the services of Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich.
The 24-year-old center-back, who has faced challenges securing regular playing time at the German club this season, is poised for a potential reunion with his former manager at Ajax, Erik ten Hag.
According to a report in De Telegraaf on Monday, Manchester United has tabled a five-year contract offer to De Ligt, with negotiations between the player’s representatives and the English club at an advanced stage. It is anticipated that an agreement on personal terms will soon be reached ("Mirror").
De Ligt's expected transfer to Old Trafford follows a demanding 2023/24 season at Bayern Munich, where he has seen a decline in his role within the team's defensive lineup.
Despite his €67 million move from Juventus to Bayern Munich in 2022, the Dutch international made only 22 appearances in the Bundesliga last season.
The report notes that de Ligt and Ten Hag have maintained regular communication, engaging in several phone conversations. Their past collaboration at Ajax is seen as pivotal in sealing the prospective deal.
While discussions on personal terms progress positively, finalizing the transfer hinges on Manchester United and Bayern Munich coming to an agreement on the transfer fee. The two clubs are currently engaged in talks, with specific details of the fee undisclosed.
Should the deal materialize, it would mark a significant enhancement to Manchester United's defensive options and could potentially reshape the club's defensive lineup for the upcoming season.
For de Ligt, this presents an opportunity to revitalize his career under a familiar manager in one of the world's most competitive leagues.
Quoting Dutch publication De Telegraaf and acknowledging the reported details closely, the potential acquisition of Matthijs de Ligt could signify a notable development for Manchester United as they prepare for the upcoming season.
End of Professional Article.
Makua Ubanagu reports on politics, business, sports, and metro with a year of experience on the job.