Manchester United are unlikely to meet Bayern Munich’s asking price for centre-back Matthijs de Ligt this summer, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Red Devils have already finalized deals for Netherlands international Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna and young French centre-back Leny Yoro from Lille. Under the ownership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, the club aims to recruit players aged 25 and under to rejuvenate the squad and ensure potential resale value for future transactions.
Their next target appears to be a defensive midfielder, with Manuel Ugarte reportedly the primary focus as negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain progress.
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Additionally, Manchester United could bolster their defense further with interest in Bayern Munich’s De Ligt, who tops their list after abandoning pursuit of Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.
Despite reportedly having a £29 million bid rejected by Bayern Munich, Manchester United remain keen on securing De Ligt’s signature, with the Dutch international eager to move to Old Trafford.
Romano emphasized on his YouTube channel that Manchester United are reluctant to meet Bayern’s €50 million (£42 million) valuation in a straightforward deal, citing the importance of balancing expenditures with player sales.
Manchester United’s £29 million offer for De Ligt was reportedly rejected by Bayern Munich as they pursue a deal for the Dutch defender, who is keen to join Old Trafford. However, according to transfer expert Romano, the Red Devils are adamant about not meeting Bayern’s €50 million (£42 million) asking price.
Romano explained on his YouTube channel: “Manchester United have an agreement in place with Matthijs de Ligt, but they are prioritizing player sales, and currently, they are not willing to pay €50 million upfront without add-ons.”
He continued, “Manchester United has always preferred to include add-ons as part of the negotiation with Bayern. This is why discussions are ongoing. They are not prepared to pay €50 million outright and are looking to adjust the deal structure. Meanwhile, Matthijs de Ligt remains in a waiting position.”
Sky Sports reports that Manchester United are also interested in signing Vanderson from Monaco. Football scout Antonio Mango describes Vanderson as a “modern-day full-back” with “exceptional pace” and attributes such as athleticism, technical skills, and energy.
Mango commented on social media, “Vanderson is a right-back just under six feet tall, which is rare for the position. He possesses incredible pace, acceleration, athleticism, dynamism, elite technical skills, and boundless energy.”
He added, “Vanderson epitomizes the modern full-back who loves to push forward and contribute offensively. Whether deployed as a full-back, wing-back, or right winger at Monaco, his game remains consistently effective.”
Known for his offensive prowess, power, and physicality, Vanderson is particularly noted for his blazing speed, often surging down the flank and posing a constant threat to opponents both on and off the ball.
“In possession, his technical ability is superb, and his capacity to dribble at high speeds is remarkable,” Mango concluded.