Manchester United is reportedly considering intensifying their efforts to acquire Matthijs de Ligt after new signing Leny Yoro sustained an injury. De Ligt has long been a target for United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, and the injury to Yoro may necessitate a more aggressive approach to secure the Dutch defender’s services.
Leny Yoro, who was signed for £59 million from Lille, suffered an injury during United’s 2-1 loss to Arsenal in Los Angeles. While the club has not officially commented on the severity of Yoro’s injury, initial observations suggest it could be serious.
Yoro was seen using crutches and wearing a protective boot on his left foot at UCLA, United’s training camp. This development could be a significant setback for United and ten Hag, who had intended to integrate Yoro into the starting lineup for the upcoming season.
Adding to ten Hag’s defensive concerns, Lisandro Martinez is not yet back in training following Argentina’s Copa America victory, potentially making him unavailable for the Premier League opener against Fulham on August 16. Victor Lindelof has only recently returned to full training after a minor injury and has been linked with a possible exit from the club.
Given these circumstances, ten Hag might have to rely on veterans like Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans, or even left-back Luke Shaw, to fill the central defensive positions.
In light of these issues, Manchester United is eager to strengthen their defense. Matthijs de Ligt, who previously played under ten Hag at Ajax, remains a top target.
Although personal terms with de Ligt have been agreed upon, the two clubs have yet to settle on a transfer fee. Bayern Munich, who purchased de Ligt from Juventus for over £60 million two years ago, is unlikely to let him go cheaply. However, Yoro’s injury might push United to increase their offer.
United is also interested in Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, but negotiations have stalled as Everton is demanding at least £70 million.
United’s initial bid of £45 million, plus £5 million in add-ons, was rejected by Everton. Thus, the club faces challenges in securing the defensive reinforcements needed before the season begins.
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