“Now in formal talks”: United closing in on elite defender as Euro giants slash asking price – report

Manchester United have entered “formal talks” with Bayern Munich over a move for Matthijs de Ligt with Old Trafford executives hoping to strike a much cheaper deal than previously expected.

Ben Jacobs (GiveMeSport) reveals United are currently negotiating a transfer “framed around a €40m package” – far below the €70 million asking priceBayern were reported to be demanding a few days ago.

Jacobs describes De Ligt as “open to the move” to Manchester, mirroring reports relayed by The Peoples Person last week, which revealed the Dutch centre-back was willing to join United despite the prospect of no Champions League football next season.

Manchester United are now in formal talks with Bayern Munich over Matthijs de Ligt. With Jarrad Branthwaite too expensive, and Jean-Clair Todibo not possible, #MUFC currently focused on De Ligt, although could add two centre-backs.

“Understand initial discussions framed around a €40m package. De Ligt open to the move, and the overall cost of a deal is lower than United anticipated when De Ligt first came under consideration in March.”