Surajit Das
Manchester United receive a boost in the pursuit of Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt
According to Il Corriere dello Sport via Sport Witness (h/t Football.London), Manchester United could get Matthijs de Ligt at a lower price than his current release clause if he renews his contract with Juventus.
Manchester United could use a defensive signing or two, considering they gave up more league goals last season than any other team in the top 10.
Raphael Varane was hampered by his own problems, and it’s fair to say that both Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof struggled under the pressure at Old Trafford. It seems sensible to look for another elite centre-half in light of this.
Enter Matthijs de Ligt. The Dutchman has been linked with a move to United. Given his prior relationships with Erik ten Hag, it would be a reunion that could benefit both parties.
But the situation is not suitable for United to strike a deal with Juventus as they have already entered into contract renewal discussions with the Dutch centre-back. It might sound troublesome for us at first, but his renewal deal might turn into a boon to United’s hope of securing his signature.
It is believed that the existing €120 million (£103 million) release clause would be reduced should he sign a new contract at Turin. This could be a huge boost to United’s intention as it would ensure a financial advantage going on to the negotiation table.
Erik ten Hag has been appointed as Manchester United’s new manager for the upcoming campaign, and it appears that the Dutch strategist plans to lead the squad back from its illustrious run to the Champions League semi-finals in 2018.
Although it is well known that Manchester United is attempting to sign Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona, Donny van de Beek is already part of the team.
Regardless, de Ligt would be a fantastic addition to our underwhelming backline if Manchester United were to sign him. In the upcoming season, he might work deadly well with Raphael Varane. The presence of Donny van de Beek and, if we sign him, Frenkie de Jong, means that the Juve player will have a few familiar faces in the dressing room.
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When you take into account the fact that de Ligt will be working with his old employer ten Hag again, signing him makes even more sense. However, United will have to be prepared to fork over the cash because the deal may not be cheap.
Moreover, Juve are a smart team. Any deal they offer de Ligt would surely be one that gives them relatively more control over the Dutchman’s future than they have right now.
