Man Utd ‘hold talks with Matthijs de Ligt’s representatives’ and want to pair him with Everton star in defence
MANCHESTER UNITED have held talks with Matthijs de Ligt’s representatives over a potential move, according to reports.
United have been long-linked with the 24-year-old as Sir Jim Ratcliffe looks to strengthen Erik ten Hag‘s side heading into the new season.
The defence has been identified as a particular area of focus for Man Utd, who have seen centre-back Raphael Varane leave the club this summer.
De Lijt has now been named as one potential addition to the Old Trafford back line.
According to the Mail, United officials have held talks with the Dutch international’s representatives.
De Lijt is currently on the books at Bayern Munich after making a mega money £68m switch from Juventus in 2022.
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But the former Ajax man only managed 16 starts in the Bundesliga last term as Bayern played out their first trophy-less season in 12 years.
De Lijt played under current United manager Ten Hag at Ajax, helping the Amsterdam giants reach the Champions League semi-final in 2019.
And he’s certainly trusted by Ten Hag with now-Man Utd boss even making him Ajax’s youngest ever captain at just 19 years old.
De Lijt isn’t the only name on United’s list of defensive targets either.
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Execs at the club are still interested in signing Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite and are understood to be keen to have the pair play alongside eachother.
The Red Devils submitted a bid worth £35m plus £8m in add-ons for Branthwaite earlier this month.
However, Everton are believed to be holding out for a sum closer to £70m for the 22-year-old.
Outgoing defender Varane looks likely to head to Italy after reports emerged of discussions with Serie A side Como – managed by Cesc Fabregas.
While United are also rumoured to be keen on bringing a new striker in this summer to share the load up top with Rasmus Hojlund.
Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee is one name who has been linked with a move and the Netherlands international is believed to have a £34m release clause.
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