Erik ten Hag demands Manchester United board to sign his former player: Reports
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly told Red Devils hierarchy to secure Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt's services ahead of the next term.
The Old Trafford outfit, who finished eighth in the Premier League standings in the 2023-24 campaign, endured a difficult time stopping opposition teams from scoring goals last season. They shipped 87 goals, including 58 in the league, in 52 outings in all competitions.
As a result, Manchester United are thought to be looking for a top centre-back this summer. Furthermore, Raphael Varane will depart as a free agent soon and Victor Lindelof could be sold before the next term.
Now, according to The Athletic, the Red Devils are seriously considering a move to sign De Ligt this summer. They are yet to hold talks with Bayern Munich to sign the defender, who is hugely admired by Ten Hag.
The Red Devils, who are also linked with Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite and LOSC Lille's Leny Yoro, have been monitoring De Ligt since 2019. They are likely to wait for a few outgoings in the player's position before tabling a bid for the former Ajax and Juventus man.
De Ligt, whose current contract is set to run out in June 2027, shot to fame during his time under Ten Hag at Ajax. The 24-year-old helped his boyhood team win two trophies, registering eight goals and five assists in 70 total appearances under the Red Devils boss.
Should De Ligt move to Manchester United in the near future, he would emerge as a first-team starter for them. He would play alongside left-footed defender Lisandro Martinez at the heart of their defence.
De Ligt, who is currently participating at the UEFA Euro 2024, has started 61 of his 73 appearances across competitions for Bayern so far. The Dutchman has scored five goals and laid out two assists so far.
Premier League defender looking forward to joining Manchester United, states journalist
Speaking to GiveMeSport, transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano stated that Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite is eager to join Manchester United this summer. He said:
"I would keep his name in the list of Manchester United, waiting to see what they decided to do because the player is keen on the move. Personal terms are not an issue at all. So, United know the player is open to joining them, even without Champions League football, but it depends on the clubs."
Branthwaite, 22, helped Everton record 15 clean sheets in 41 overall appearances in the 2023-24 term, scoring three goals in the process.
According to The Athletic, Everton value their defender at £70 million.