Transfer Centre

Man United transfer news: Red Devils 'closing in' on first summer signing

By Ben Sully
Published: 07 July 2024 1:14 PM

Man United 'confident' of making first summer signing

Manchester United are reportedly growing in confidence that they can agree a deal to sign Netherlands international Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich.

Manchester United have reportedly made progress in their efforts to sign Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt.

The Red Devils are looking to strengthen their backline following the departure of experienced centre-back Raphael Varane.

As it stands, Erik ten Hag's defensive options include Lisandro Martinez, Jonny Evans, Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof.

However, Maguire and Lindelof are facing uncertain futures and could both be sold, especially if Man United bring in defensive reinforcements this summer.

The Red Devils are currently working on a deal to reunite Ten Hag with De Ligt after the pair previously worked together at Ajax.

Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt in October 2023. © Reuters

Man United making progress in De Ligt pursuit

De Ligt, who is under contract until June 2027, has already made it clear that he is only prepared to leave Bayern for Man United.

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Man United are 'increasingly confident' of striking a deal to make De Ligt their first signing of the summer transfer window.

The Dutchman is continuing to prioritise a move to Old Trafford, and he is now on the verge of agreeing personal terms with the 20-time English champions.

Man United are currently holding talks with Bayern over the transfer structure, with the Red Devils looking to pay part of the deal in add-ons.

Netherlands defender Matthijs de Ligt on June 16, 2024 © Reuters

What would De Ligt's role be at Old Trafford?

Last season, Ten Hag chopped and changed his central-defensive pairings, largely due to the numerous injury issues that affected his backline.

There is an expectation that Ten Hag will look to establish a settled centre-back pairing with De Ligt and Martinez if the Netherlands international signs this summer.

While he may only be 24, De Ligt would also bring a wealth of experience to Old Trafford, having made 307 appearances during his time at Ajax, Juventus and Bayern.

The defender also has experience of winning multiple honours, having won league titles in Netherlands, Germany and Italy as well as lifting the KNVB Beker, Coppa Italia, Italian Super Cup, DFB-Pokal and the German Super Cup.