World-class £42m star hoping for move to Man Utd! 🌟 Excitement is brewing among Red Devils fans as a top-tier talent eyes a switch to Old Trafford. This £42 million sensation, known for his incredible skills and game-changing performances, is eager to don the iconic red jersey. With his sights set on Manchester United, the football world is abuzz with anticipation. Could this be the next big signing to elevate the squad to new heights? Stay tuned for more updates on this potential blockbuster move!

Bayern Munich is demanding a fixed €50 million (£42 million) for Matthijs de Ligt, who is reportedly eager to join Manchester United, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano in an interview with GIVEMESPORT.

Manchester United is looking to bolster their defense this summer, having already secured teenage prospect Leny Yoro in a £52 million deal from Lille. De Ligt has been a top target for United, but their previous £29 million bid was turned down by Bayern Munich.

Romano reveals that Bayern’s firm asking price for De Ligt is €50 million, significantly higher than United’s offer. The player has recently agreed to a £170,000-per-week contract but is awaiting further developments in talks between the two clubs.

De Ligt’s future with Bayern remains uncertain as he has slipped down the defensive hierarchy under coach Thomas Tuchel, with competitors such as Eric Dier, Dayot Upamecano, and Kim Min-Jae surpassing him. Despite being labeled “world-class” by Bayern’s sporting director Christoph Freund, the 24-year-old’s limited appearances—just 73 in two seasons since his transfer from Juventus—could lead to another major move.

United views De Ligt as a potential asset to challenge Yoro and provide depth in the defense, possibly partnering with Lisandro Martínez. However, negotiations have stalled due to Bayern’s high valuation, which is close to recouping the €67 million spent on De Ligt. United, cautious about engaging in lengthy and costly transfer negotiations, may seek alternatives.

Romano suggested that the hefty asking price might hinder the deal’s progress. He stated:

“Manchester United still intends to sign another centre-back. The situation with Matthijs de Ligt is that he is keen on a move to United, but Bayern’s stance is firm on their €50 million demand.”

With United previously withdrawing from a significant deal for Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton, this high asking price could be a serious obstacle. The club has a list of potential substitutes should the De Ligt deal fall through.

One potential alternative is Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah. United has reportedly shown interest in the 28-year-old, who impressed last season and played a crucial role in Leverkusen’s Bundesliga campaign under Xabi Alonso. Given that Tah is in the final year of his contract and the fact that Leverkusen might prefer selling to an English club over Bayern, United could acquire him at a more favorable price.