Manchester United has confirmed the acquisition of defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich in a deal that could total nearly £60 million ($77 million). De Ligt has committed to a five-year contract at Old Trafford, while Mazraoui has signed a four-year deal, with both contracts including an option for an additional 12 months.
These signings reunite Erik ten Hag with two of his former Ajax players. De Ligt captained the Ajax team that Ten Hag led to the Champions League semi-finals in 2019. United paid £38.5 million ($49.5 million) with an additional £4.3 million ($5.5 million) in potential add-ons for the centre-back. Mazraoui’s transfer will cost £12.8 million ($16 million), plus £4.3 million ($5.5 million) in possible add-ons.
De Ligt expressed his excitement about joining United, saying, “When I heard Manchester United were interested, I was thrilled by the chance to take on a new challenge at such a historic club. During subsequent discussions, I was impressed by the vision the club’s football leadership shared and the role they envisioned for me.”
Mazraoui also expressed his enthusiasm about reuniting with Ten Hag. “Erik ten Hag was crucial in my development as a player, so it’s exciting to join him again as I enter the prime of my career,” the Moroccan international said. “I know what he expects from his players, and I’m ready to give everything to help the team succeed.”
With Luke Shaw sidelined due to injury, Mazraoui might be thrust into the starting lineup for United’s Premier League opener against Fulham on Friday. Although the fitness status of both new signings is still unclear, Ten Hag is dealing with an injury crisis and will be eager to get them match-ready as quickly as possible.