Manchester United have had a productive summer transfer window with a couple of signings.
They are likely to continue the spending spree over the next few weeks. A second centre-back seems a priority for manager Erik ten Hag.
He has publicly confirmed his desire to sign Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt, having missed out on the opportunity to do so two years ago.
It is now reported by Sunday Express (page 72) that Bayern want £45 million plus add-ons for the Dutchman, but United are unwilling to match that figure.
However, their latest bid is expected to go close. The ‘full-blown superstar‘ has told his agent that he only ‘wants to join’ the Red Devils thus parking negotiations with other clubs.
The Ajax graduate has the same stance as Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte, who is determined to sign for the club. He has already agreed terms over a five-year deal.
United recently confirmed the big-money signing of Leny Yoro from Lille. The 18-year-old wonderkid had an impressive non-competitive debut against Rangers.
Despite this, Ten Hag may want another experienced centre-back with potential so that he can ease the pressure of expectations on the highly-rated youngster.
De Ligt appears the likely solution ahead of Jarrad Branthwaite. The Toffees have closed the door on selling him for less than £70m despite their failed takeover.
In our view, a transfer for De Ligt could be delayed until the final days of the transfer window. United may want to recoup some funds from player departures first.
Victor Lindelof is on the radar of Fenerbahce and he could be offloaded in the near future.
The future of Harry Maguire has also been put into question, but Ten Hag is more than happy to keep him next season after his brilliant attitude and form last term.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
