Manchester United are likely to sign a new centre-back before the transfer window closes on August 30.
It was recently confirmed that Leny Yoro will be sidelined for three months after ankle surgery, increasing the club’s need for another central defender.
Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt is the prime target and BILD claims the Red Devils are ‘waiting for time’ in order to reduce the transfer fee for the Netherlands ace.
Bayern want £43 million plus for the 24-year-old, but United are aiming to sign him for less.
Bayer Leverkusen captain Jonathan Tah has been identified as De Ligt’s successor, but the German champions won’t wait forever – they need a replacement.
United in pole position to land De Ligt
The Red Devils made a statement by signing Yoro from Lille, but the teenager won’t make his competitive debut until November after picking up an unfortunate injury against Arsenal.
This has jeopardised United’s plans. Yoro would have been an undisputed starter in the right centre-back role. Erik ten Hag is now likely to push for a reunion with De Ligt.
The Ajax graduate has given the green light for a transfer. He has agreed personal terms and told his agent that he does not want to join any another club this summer.
United are in pole position to sign him. Bayern could reduce their transfer valuation for De Ligt in the coming days depending on manager Vincent Kompany’s stance.
If Kompany were to push for Tah’s signature, the hierarchy may have no choice but to lower their price tag for De Ligt. This would directly work in the Red Devils’ favour.
De Ligt, who is described as a ‘full-blown superstar‘ by Bundesliga’s official website, would be a quality signing with his strong distribution, aerial presence and knack for making clearances.
He may not need much time to adapt to the tactics. The Dutchman played for two-and-a-half seasons under Ten Hag at Ajax and should be well-versed in the playing style.
He can establish himself as a regular starter with Yoro on the sidelines.
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