Manchester United target signing that’ll make Ten Hag happy

Manchester United have pinpointed a major summer transfer target as they look to bolster their defensive line, with Erik ten Hag ‘welcoming’ the potential move, according to a recent report.

The Red Devils are anticipated to make several key signings in the upcoming months under the stewardship of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team. Strengthening four key positions—full-back, centre-back, central midfielder, and striker—has been identified as a priority.

United’s transfer efforts faced a setback when UEFA blocked a summer move for OGC Nice centre-back Jean-Clair Todibo, who impressed in Ligue 1 last season. Ratcliffe has since criticized UEFA’s decision, voicing frustration over the missed opportunity.

In hindsight, the club has shifted its focus to other targets; Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite reportedly ‘keen’ on the move to Old Trafford. However, negotiations and Financial Fair Play regulations may stall negotiations.

Despite this, another option emerges in the equation.

According to The Athletic, the club is ‘seriously considering’ a move for Netherlands international Matthijs de Ligt.

The 24-year-old centre-back, who transferred to Bayern Munich from Juventus in 2022 for £68 million, made 16 starts for the Bundesliga champions last season.

De Ligt is seen by Manchester United as an ‘increasingly viable candidate’ to fortify their back line. While negotiations have yet to commence, David Ornstein reports that there is ‘no certainty’ a deal will materialize, though De Ligt remains a ‘concrete’ target. Erik ten Hag, who previously managed De Ligt at Ajax, is open to a reunion.

When asked about his current situation while on international duty with the Netherlands this summer, De Ligt expressed a measured calm.

“I’m relatively calm. Moments like this can be difficult. Talking about it helps you lighten up and give your energy on the pitch instead of wasting it in these kinds of thoughts.”

De Ligt has been placed on United’s shortlist but securing his services won’t come cheap. According to Bild’s Christian Falk in his column for CaughtOffside, Bayern Munich are asking for €70 million (£59.3 million) for the player this summer. United, on the other hand, are only prepared to offer €35 million (£29.6 million).

The Dutch defender is an ardent admirer of Ten Hag. After the former Ajax boss took over at Old Trafford in 2022, De Ligt expressed his confidence in his former manager’s potential for success in Manchester.

At one time, De Light said in quotes:

“He is someone who loves his job and he loves to work. 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.”

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