Erik ten Hag should stay away from top target, says ex-Manchester United striker

Former Manchester United Striker Andy Cole has expressed concerns over a summer pursuit of Dutch centre-back Matthijs de Ligt.

De Ligt, who played under Erik ten Hag at Ajax, is reportedly a top summer target for Manchester United.

But United legend Andy Cole is concerned about the 24-year-old’s performances since leaving the Dutch club in 2019, pointing towards his lack of success since as a red flag.

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Speaking to Betfred, Cole said: “He’s had tough times at both Juventus and Bayern Munich, then how can you suggest that he will be a success at Manchester United?

“Matthijs is another player that’s played for Erik ten Hag, and the majority of signings that Erik’s made during his time at the club have been players that he’s managed previously.”

With five of Ten Hag’s transfers being players he had previously worked with, Cole believes that Manchester United needs to look elsewhere.

He added: “The Premier League is a totally different league, and the ocean is very, very big when it comes to players.

“How many other managers in the Premier League have the same approach to transfers? Especially at the top, top level.

The 52-year-old also supports the rumours that INEOS plan to reduce Erik ten Hag’s influence over Manchester United’s future transfers.

He said: “I think it’s a good thing to be fair because Manchester United can now cast their net wider.”

Elsewhere in the interview, Cole also urged his former club to sign Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema, despite the Frenchman speaking out to downplay rumours that he wants to leave Al-Ittihad.