Manchester United’s price tag for Matthijs de Ligt ‘revealed’, first Dan Ashworth signing expected

Manchester United’s price tag for Matthijs de Ligt has reportedly been revealed, with the Dutch defender set to become Erik ten Hag’s first signing under Dan Ashworth.

Manchester United are actively seeking new centre-back options following a challenging season in which Erik ten Hag‘s squad conceded over 80 goals and faced a severe injury crisis.

Raphaël Varane, Lisandro Martínez, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelöf, and Jonny Evans all endured significant time on the sidelines at Old Trafford. As a result, the club is on the lookout for fresh talent, with several of these players likely to depart.

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Initially, Jarrad Branthwaite emerged as the most frequently linked player to United. The club made a bid of £35 million, with an additional £8 million in add-ons, to Everton, which was rejected.

Following this, the club has seemingly moved on to other targets and are said to be close to wrapping up a deal for Bayern Munich’s central defender, Matthijs de Ligt.

De Ligt is well known for his brilliant introduction into European football as Ten Hag’s captain at Ajax, where he led the side to a Champions League semi-final and league title win at the age of 19.

According to iNews, the move is now “quickly progressing” as United “begin making moves” in the summer transfer window after confirming that Ten Hag’s contract has been extended.

The report further states that United and Bayern have “begun talks” over a deal for De Ligt, with both clubs aiming to get the transfer over the line quickly. The deal they are discussing is said to be worth £34 million, which is lower than the initial £42 million that was suggested by local German media.

According to iNews, the 24-year-old even understood to be willing to take a pay cut in order to secure a move to United, where he will no doubt look to reignite his career following moves to Juventus and Munich.

De Ligt is a popular squad member among Bayern’s fans, which is a testament to his character. He is well known for being a strong presence and leader in the dressing room and speaks fluent English, which will only be a further positive at Old Trafford.

De Ligt will be the first signing Dan Ashworth has overseen since his installation as the club’s new sporting director.

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