Manchester United have identified a summer transfer target as they aim to strengthen their back line – and Erik ten Hag has 'welcomed' the move, according to a new report.
The Reds are likely to make a number of signings in the coming months as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team attempt to improve matters on the pitch.
They have prioritised strengthening four positions – a full-back, centre-back, central-midfielder and a striker.
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Ratcliffe has recently criticised UEFA after they blocked United from making a summer move for OGC Nice centre-back Jean-Clair Todibo, who impressed in Ligue 1 last season.
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is reportedly 'keen' on joining the ranks at Old Trafford but there could be a significant sticking point in negotiations.
And now, another option has emerged. The Athletic report that United are 'seriously considering' a move for Netherlands international Matthijs de Ligt.
The 24-year-old centre-back, who joined Bayern Munich from Juventus in 2022 for £68 million, made 16 starts for the Bundesliga giants last season.
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He is seen by United as an 'increasingly viable candidate' to improve their back line, although negotiations are yet to take place.
David Ornstein suggests there is 'no certainty' that a move will happen but he has been deemed a 'concrete' target. Erik ten Hag is also open to a reunion after managing the player at Ajax.
When asked about his current situation while on international duty for the Netherlands this summer, De Ligt said: "I'm relatively calm. Moments like this can be difficult."
He added: "Talking about it helps you lighten up and give your energy on the pitch instead of wasting it in these kinds of thoughts."
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De Ligt looks to have been placed on United's shortlist but he won't come cheap.
According to Bild’s Christian Falk in his column for CaughtOffside, Bayern want €70 million (£59.3 million) for the player this summer. United, meanwhile, are only prepared to splash €35 million (£29.6 million).
The Dutch defender is a huge fan of Ten Hag. Back in 2022, after the former Ajax boss took over at Old Trafford, De Ligt backed his old manager to succeed in Manchester.
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“He is someone who loves his job and he loves to work,” said De Ligt. “He’s really into the details. This makes him a really good trainer.
“He has a lot of qualities (to succeed). He definitely improves players. He wants to do everything to make his team play better.”
Topics: Erik Ten Hag, Manchester United, Matthijs De Ligt, Bayern Munich, Transfers, Manchester United Transfer News & Rumours
Jack Kenmare