Manchester United are seriously considering a move for Bayern Munich center-back Matthijs de Ligt, according to The Athletic. With new part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe aiming for a comprehensive squad overhaul, the Red Devils plan to bolster their defense. De Ligt, 24, has emerged as a top target, seen as an “increasingly viable” candidate by United officials.

However, no negotiations between the clubs have taken place yet. De Ligt, who played under Erik ten Hag at Ajax and became the club’s youngest captain at 19, joined Bayern Munich in 2022 after a stint at Juventus. He has since made 73 appearances for the German club. Alongside De Ligt, Manchester United remain interested in Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, having submitted a £35m bid plus £8m in add-ons, although Everton seeks £70m.

Ratcliffe’s new rules at Old Trafford focus on signing players under 25, avoiding high-profile “Galactico” signings, and addressing specific positional needs rather than acquiring particular players. Both De Ligt and Branthwaite align with this strategic approach.

Here is the skills highlight video of Matthijs de Ligt.

Matthijs de Ligt

This season he played in total 22 times for 1390 minutes for Bundesliga.

Matthijs de Ligt scored 2 goals for FC Bayern München. He procured no assists. He received 5 yellow cards and no red cards.

His team is currently 2nd in Bundesliga. In the last match FC Bayern München lost 4-2 against TSG Hoffenheim.

FC Bayern München performance and stats

FC Bayern München is currently 2nd in the Bundesliga with 72 points.

In the last 34 games, it has won 23 times, drawn 3 times, and lost 8 times. In its last match, FC Bayern München lost 4-2 against TSG Hoffenheim.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 92 goals and conceding 41.​