Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has addressed speculation linking Matthijs de Ligt with a move to Manchester United this summer.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is in the middle of orchestrating a major rebuild of the Red Devils’ backline, with Leny Yoro joining from Lille to replace Raphael Varane. Willy Kambwala has also left while Victor Lindelof is up for sale.
Two further additions are now being eyed, with Bayern right-back Noussair Mazraoui being eyed to replace West Ham-bound Aaron Wan-Bissaka and provide an additional option in left-back when required.
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United are also hopeful of luring De Ligt away from the Allianz Arena this summer, having already seen an approach for the Netherlands international rejected.
Bayern chief Eberl has now spoken out about the links, refusing to be drawn into speaking about the speculation whilst De Ligt remains on his side’s books. He told Sky Sports Germany: “I will comment on the reasons when the time comes. It is not yet that time.
“Matthijs played very well here for two years and that is why many fans like him. Nevertheless, you have to think about how you decide and also how the boy feels. He is still a player for FC Bayern. And as long as he is, he will get all the support from us.”
Erik ten Hag is keen to reunite with De Ligt at Old Trafford next season, having worked with the defender whilst the pair were at Ajax.
He also shortlisted the ex-Juventus defender as a target upon his arrival in the Premier League in 2022, though United's previous pursuit was unsuccessful.
De Ligt has already held extensive talks with United to confirm that he would be willing to join the club this month.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the 24-year-old has ‘verbally agreed’ on personal terms with the Red Devils though there is not an agreement between the two clubs at this stage.
United will need to pay a fee of £42million if they are to strike a deal with Bayern, having previously explored the opportunity to strike a joint agreement involving Mazraoui.
Acquiring the services of De Ligt would allow the club to sell another central defender, with Lindelof not expected to have a long-term future at the Theatre of Dreams.
