Manchester United have made a couple of signings during the ongoing transfer window, but there could be more activity in the coming weeks.
A second centre-back could be signed after Leny Yoro and manager Erik ten Hag has personally admitted that he would like a reunion with Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt.
Bayern’s honorary president has now dropped a big hint that the Netherlands international could be Old Trafford bound to link up with his former manager this summer.
He said via journalist Florian Plettenberg: “It’s possible that a defender will leave. De Ligt is Dutch, the coach at Manchester United is Dutch.”
“I would have no problem if he stays. Personally, I would not sell Upamecano.”
The Ajax graduate has verbally agreed a five-year contract with United. He has reportedly told his agent that he does not want to negotiate with any other European club.
United’s first bid of €30 million (£29.5m) for De Ligt has been turned down by Bayern. The Munich giants want at least €50m (£42m) plus add-ons to part ways with the 24-year-old ace.
In our opinion, a middle ground could be reached in the near future. Bayern have identified Jonathan Tah as a replacement, but they need to recoup funds from De Ligt’s sale first.
The Red Devils are most likely to make a renewed approach. We believe a package in the region of €40m (£33.7m) plus bonuses could persuade Bayern to sanction his departure.
De Ligt would be a fine acquisition for United. He is one of the best distributors in European football and had an impressive passing accuracy of almost 94 percent in Bundesliga last term.
The Dutchman also has a strong aerial presence and likes to make clearances. He is not blessed with extreme pace, but averages three recoveries per game with his good positioning.
De Ligt could possibly emerge as a starting centre-back ahead of Leny Yoro. The club plan to ease the expectations of the Frenchman at his young age. He is already aware of the plans.
Stats from Sofascore.com
