Manchester United may still make a move for De Ligt, but under one condition
Manchester United wish to bring in two new centre-backs this summer, as they look to strengthen the position and future-proof it for long-term success REUTERS/Eva Plevier
Manchester United are refusing to rule out a move for Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt this summer, according to reports.
The Old Trafford club appears to be on the verge of signing Leny Yoro from Lille, having defeated Real Madrid in the race for his services. The Reds have reportedly agreed to pay an initial £52 million for the emerging centre-back, although add-ons could take that figure up to the £58.9 million mark.
But considering the teenage sensation is only 18, Erik ten Hag is very likely to give him ample time to find his feet in England, gradually easing him into the Manchester United lineup.
This means the Mancunian giants could still use a new first-choice right-sided centre-back for the upcoming season, as they look to revamp their defence following Raphael Varane’s departure. And this very fact may seemingly work in favour of Matthijs de Ligt, who wants out of Munich.
Manchester United’s De Ligt pursuit to hinge on one key factor
According to Manchester World, the Red Devils fully intend to strengthen their centrl defence and future-proof it for long-term success. To do so, they are looking to bring in at least two new centre-back reinforcements—one of which will soon be Yoro. And the other, Matthijs de Ligt.
The report states that while Manchester United remain interested in the Dutchman, a move for him depends on whether or not they manage to sell Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire or both this summer.
The 20-time English champions are actively looking to offload Lindelof, but the Swede is yet to attract any concrete interest. On the other hand, Maguire is further up their priority list, but the club will consider an offer for the Englishman if the price is right.
As for the rest of their central defence, Lisandro Martinez remains a guaranteed starter at left-sided centre-back, while Jonny Evans has signed a contract extension to provide backup for the 2024-25 season. Varane and Willy Kambwala have already headed out the Theatre of Dreams.
It will be interesting to see whether De Ligt adds to this defensive unit by reuniting with Ten Hag in Manchester. But if he doesn’t, United are unlikely to be too disappointed considering they will soon be getting their hands on a generational talent in Yoro.