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Manchester United and Barcelona to target a move for Thomas Tuchel’s prized asset this summer

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Manchester United and Barcelona to target a move for Thomas Tuchel's prized asset this summer

Manchester United are ready to challenge Barcelona and other elite clubs Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt

Manchester United are planning to sign Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt, beating Barcelona and many interested elite clubs. Intense competition for the starting role leaves De Ligt’s position in the squad currently unsecured.

Furthermore, the 24-year-old has missed several games due to nagging injuries while the German giants face slight defensive fragilities. Bayern’s manager Thomas Tuchel has preferred Kim Min-jae and Dayot Upamecano as his first-choice centre-back pairing for many games.

Nevertheless, De Light remains professional and awaits his opportunity while emphasizing the importance of remaining fit. Standing at 1.89 metres, he is physically dominant in both the aerial and ground duels having strength, balance and athleticism.

MUNICH, GERMANY - JANUARY 12: Matthijs de Ligt of Bayern Munich and Wout Weghorst of TSG 1899 Hoffenheim battle for the ball during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and TSG Hoffenheim at Allianz Arena on January 12, 2024 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Sebastian Widmann/Getty Images)
Manchester United are targeting Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt to bolster their defence for the next season. (Photo by Sebastian Widmann/Getty Images)

The 24-year-old is a modern-day centre-back with the technical ability and creativity to distribute the ball and start build-up. He has ample amount of experience in different top leagues, having played for both Ajax and Juventus before joining Bayern.

The Dutch international has the leadership qualities, game intelligence and mental awareness to be a dominating force in defence. Many legendary defenders and managers have praised him for his all-round qualities and experience, despite his young age.

ESPN reported that United are ready to challenge Barcelona for the signature of De Ligt to solve their defensive issues. Paris Saint-Germain attempted to sign the Dutchman in January but the German giants managed to keep their defender.

United’s primary centre-backs Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane missed plenty of games due to injuries. Furthermore, most of the defensive options are in their 30s, making them unreliable with both injuries and ability.

The Red Devils have conceded 52 goals from 32 matches in all competitions this season, only keeping nine clean sheets. The team’s defensive fragility significantly contributed to their early exits from the Champions League and the Carabao Cup. Additionally, United are trailing back in their quest to finish in the top four in the Premier League this season.

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De Ligt can be a marquee signing to bolster the defence with youth, experience, leadership and quality. The Dutchman has already played under the current manager Erik ten Hag which would only help his transition into the first team.