United Closing In on De Ligt
Manchester United are edging closer to finalising a five-year contract with Matthijs de Ligt, making the Dutch defender potentially their first signing of the summer and their inaugural acquisition of the INEOS era. Bayern Munich are open to allowing De Ligt’s departure due to their extensive options in central defence for the upcoming season. With players like Dayot Upamecano, Kim Min-jae, and Eric Dier competing for starting positions, and the recent addition of Hiroki Ito from Stuttgart, Bayern’s defence is well-stocked. They are also pursuing Jonathan Tah from Leverkusen, who is currently representing Germany at the Euros.
Given these circumstances, De Ligt, aged 24, is keen on exploring new opportunities where he can secure a regular starting role. Reuniting with former coach Erik ten Hag and ex-Ajax teammate André Onana could be a compelling prospect for him. De Ligt’s prominence skyrocketed in 2019 when he led Ajax to the Champions League semi-finals and a domestic double, making him a highly coveted player. Transfer reporter Rudy Galetti has reported that an ‘understanding in place’ exists between United and De Ligt, with the club ready to meet Bayern’s financial demands to finalise the transfer.
United Seeking to Offload Van de Beek
With the conclusion of Donny van de Beek’s loan stint at Eintracht Frankfurt, the Netherlands international is set to begin pre-season training with Manchester United next week. However, it is widely anticipated that he will leave United this summer. According to the Manchester Evening News, United are actively seeking to offload Van de Beek. Despite being with United for four years, the midfielder has struggled to secure a regular spot in the team and had a disappointing loan spell in Germany last season. He made only four starts for Frankfurt after joining in January, and the Bundesliga side opted not to exercise their £9.5 million purchase option.
Van de Beek will return to Carrington for pre-season training on Monday, but United are intent on moving him on during the transfer window. With just one year remaining on his contract, he could be available for a reduced fee, despite his initial £35 million price tag from August 2020. The challenge for potential buyers will be his high wages, which could complicate a permanent transfer. As United look to strengthen their midfield this summer, Van de Beek’s potential departure could further marginalise him in the squad.