Romano shares understanding on United’s rumoured pursuit of Bundesliga ace who has ‘good connection’ with Ten Hag

MUNICH, GERMANY - JANUARY 12: Matthijs de Ligt of FC Bayern München looks on during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and TSG Hoffenheim at Allianz Arena on January 12, 2024 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Fabrizio Romano has shared his understanding of Manchester United’s rumoured interest in Bayern Munich ace Matthijs de Ligt.

As it stands, there’s nothing concrete in the speculation that United will ignite a pursuit of the Netherlands international, but it remains to be seen if that will also be the case come the summer.

It’s a well-known fact that Erik ten Hag often favours moves for players he’s already acquainted with in some aspect, whether it’s from his Ajax days or even earlier. In this particular scenario, he may be looking to reunite with the star that captained his side to the Champions League semi-finals in 2019 and a domestic double at just 19 years old.

De Ligt, 24, swapped Amsterdam for Turin the subsequent summer following Ajax’s triumphant season before making the switch to Bundesliga giants Bayern in 2022.

However, he has grown disgruntled with his reduced role in the squad under Thomas Tuchel and is said to be mulling over a departure as early as the next transfer window – at the same time United are expected to be targeting a new centre-half.

During Bayern’s high-stakes clash with league leaders Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday, De Ligt was an unused substitute and watched on from the bench as the reigning champions slumped to a 3-0 away defeat.

Romano on De Ligt to United

Speaking in his Daily Briefing with CaughtOffside, Romano explained: “Matthijs de Ligt remains a player to watch for this summer. There have been rumours linking him with Man United but that’s an obvious link to make as he has a good connection with Erik ten Hag going back to their Ajax days, but guys there’s nothing in this so far.

Man United’s business in the summer transfer market will depend on the new director of football. We are still waiting for an announcement on that, so it’s too early to say or speculate on whether the Red Devils will make a move for De Ligt.”

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