Manchester United could make a summer move for Matthijs de Ligt.
According to Florian Plettenberg via X, Premier League giants Manchester United could make a move for Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt in the 2024 summer transfer window.
Matthijs de Ligt and his Situation
The Dutchman is one of the best young defenders in world football and at 24, is primed to play at the top level for years to come. However, despite the honour of representing Bayern Munich, he is unhappy at the Allianz Arena.
De Ligt is far from an automatic starter under Thomas Tuchel and is unsatisfied with life in Bavaria. With a contract running until 2027, it is fair to say that the power lies with Bayern as far as exit negotiations are concerned.
The player’s situation could become even more precarious should Die Roten bring in Ronald Araujo in the summer. The Barcelona man is appreciated at the Bundesliga club, and bringing him to the Allianz Arena could see De Ligt fall further down the pecking order.
Where Next?
While a January exit this month has been ruled out, de Ligt could be on the move next summer. One team in the fray for his signature is Manchester United, now led by the Dutchman’s former boss, Erik ten Hag.
The Dutchman is well aware of de Ligt’s talents and aided the player’s progress while at Ajax. Ten Hag has shown a partiality to securing his former Ajax players, and de Ligt could be one of the crown jewels.
Manchester United are today not at the same level as Bayern and have a big task to return to Europe’s elite. Landing players such as de Ligt will aid that cause. Not only is the 24-year-old a reliable player, but he is also a leader on and off the field. Despite his reservations at Bayern, the Dutchman’s character and attitude ensure he is a popular player among the squad.
A move to Old Trafford will also reunite de Ligt with Andre Onana at the heart of the Manchester United defence. With Raphael Varane backed to leave, the Dutchman’s arrival could not just make life easier for Onana but also hand the club their long awaited successor to the legacy of Rio Ferdinand.
But then a lot will depend on whether Ten Hag is still at the helm come next summer. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe ready to call the shots, the Manchester United boss could find himself on shaky ground unless results pick up from now until the end of the 2023/24 season.
