Manchester United have made a significant move in the transfer market by agreeing to sign Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich. The Dutch defender has arrived at Carrington along with right-back Noussair Mazraoui to complete their medicals. The deal for De Ligt is reported to be worth €50m, with an initial €45m plus €5m in add-ons.
De Ligt’s arrival at Manchester United comes at a crucial time, as the club prepares for their opening Premier League match against Fulham. In order to be eligible to play in the match, De Ligt would need to be registered by midday on Thursday. The 24-year-old defender has spent two seasons at Bayern Munich, making 73 appearances and scoring five goals during his time at the club.
Interestingly, De Ligt has a history with Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, having played under him at Ajax. Together, they won the Eredivisie in 2019, showcasing their successful partnership on the field. This reunion could potentially bring out the best in De Ligt as he looks to make an impact at Old Trafford.
In addition to De Ligt, Manchester United are also in the process of finalizing deals for other players. Aaron Wan-Bissaka is currently undergoing a medical at West Ham, with the club set to sign Mazraoui once the deal is completed. Wan-Bissaka is expected to be replaced by Mazraoui, with United receiving a fee for the former Crystal Palace right-back.
The signing of De Ligt would bolster Manchester United’s defensive options, especially considering their injury crisis in that area. Last season, the club faced numerous defensive injuries, and this trend has continued into the current campaign. With the addition of De Ligt, along with the earlier signing of Leny Yoro, United are looking to strengthen their backline for the upcoming season.
Despite facing challenges in recent seasons, there is optimism surrounding De Ligt’s potential at Manchester United. At just 24 years old, he still has time to rediscover his form and make a significant impact at the club. With the guidance of his former coach Ten Hag, there is hope that De Ligt can reach new heights and fulfill his promise as one of the best defenders in Europe.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s acquisition of Matthijs de Ligt represents a major move for the club as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. With the defender’s arrival, along with other potential signings, United are aiming to address their defensive issues and compete at the highest level in the Premier League. The reunion of De Ligt and Ten Hag could prove to be a pivotal moment in the Dutch defender’s career, as he seeks to make a mark at one of the biggest clubs in world football.