Manchester United’s pursuit of a top summer target could leave Premier League rivals Virgil van Dijk and Nathan Ake worried. The Red Devils, under the new football operations leadership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are keen to bolster their squad in several areas during the summer transfer window.
With a central defender high on their list of priorities, it is understood that discussions are advancing to secure the services of Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt. The 24-year-old Dutchman, who previously played under United boss Erik ten Hag at Ajax, is still highly regarded by his former coach, according to Sky Sports Germany.
Currently representing the Netherlands at Euro 2024, De Ligt has earned high praise from his Premier League-based international colleagues. Liverpool‘s Van Dijk has been vocal about his admiration for the young defender, stating back in 2019: “He’s obviously an excellent defender, that’s clear.
“He can still improve a lot and he realises that, but playing like he does at that age is fantastic and I’m really happy to play besides him [for the Netherlands].”
Manchester City‘s Ake has also lauded De Ligt, comparing him to Van Dijk. He once told Goal: “De Ligt is still so young but he has played so many games in top-flight football and for the Dutch national team.
“It’s amazing what he is doing at the moment. Everyone has full confidence in him. As you can see, he’s a great player.”
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