United’s Pursuit of Matthijs de Ligt: Ongoing Talks with Bayern Munich
Negotiations Continue
Manchester United and Bayern Munich are still in active negotiations over the transfer of Matthijs de Ligt, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano. Despite the ongoing discussions, an agreement has already been reached with the player, who is eager to move to Old Trafford.
De Ligt’s Desire for United
De Ligt, who has fallen out of favor at Bayern, has agreed to personal terms with Manchester United. The Dutch defender is set to sign a five-year contract and is expected to form a formidable partnership with Lisandro Martínez in the heart of United’s defense.
Transfer Details
The two clubs are still working out the specifics of the transfer, with Bayern holding out for €50 million. United, however, may be looking to negotiate a slightly lower fee for the 24-year-old. The structure of the payments could also be a point of contention, potentially delaying the final agreement.
De Ligt’s Career Journey
De Ligt’s career has seen significant ups and downs. After a stellar start at Ajax, where he burst onto the scene in 2017, his subsequent moves to Juventus and Bayern Munich have not solidified his status as a first-choice defender. Last season, he started only 16 Bundesliga games, finding himself behind other defenders in Thomas Tuchel’s lineup.
United’s Defensive Plans
With the prospect of a more prominent role at Manchester United, De Ligt believes he will find greater satisfaction at Old Trafford. This sentiment has made personal negotiations straightforward for United’s management, despite Bayern’s firm stance on the transfer fee. Bayern’s sporting director, Christoph Freund, previously labeled De Ligt as “world-class,” highlighting the defender’s potential value.
Romano’s Insight
Romano provided insights into the ongoing discussions during his live transfer update show, indicating that while an agreement with De Ligt is in place, the clubs are still negotiating the finer points. Both parties are invested in making the transfer happen, suggesting a compromise is likely.
United’s Defensive Depth
If the deal is finalized, De Ligt will join a robust defensive lineup at Manchester United, including Lisandro Martínez, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans. This addition aims to bolster United’s defensive capabilities for the upcoming season.
De Ligt’s Bundesliga Statistics 2023/24
- Appearances: 22
- Goals: 2
- Pass Accuracy: 93.9%
- Progressive Passes Per 90: 6.36
- Passes into the Final Third Per 90: 7.08
- Tackles Per 90: 0.97
- Interceptions Per 90: 1.23
- Clearances Per 90: 3.38
- Aerial Duels Won Per 90: 2.66