BREAKING NEWS: Fabrizio Romano confirms that Manchester United’s first official bid of £35 million plus bonuses was approved by Bayern for Matthijs de Ligt. It is no secret that adding another defender during the summer transfer window was one of United’s top priorities.

Manchester United are making a determined effort to sign Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich. According to Fabrizio Romano on his Playback channel, the Dutch defender has already given his consent for the transfer. With Raphael Varane’s departure leaving a gap in United’s defense, securing another defender is a top priority for the team this summer.

**Man Utd Get Green Light for De Ligt Signing**

Romano reports that De Ligt is enthusiastic about joining Manchester United, and there should be no issues with personal terms. “Man Utd made contact with the player’s agent, and the exchange has been very positive.

What we can say today is that between De Ligt and United, things are getting really serious. De Ligt has given an initial green light to Manchester United.

He’s open and keen on a move to Manchester United. Personal terms are not an issue; the salary is not going to be a problem.”

While United are considering various options, including Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, De Ligt appears to be a more viable and attractive option. Comparing their stats from the 2023/24 season:

 

| **Statistic** | **Matthijs De Ligt** | **Jarrad Branthwaite** |

|——————————|———————-|————————|

| Pass accuracy percentage | 93.9 | 79.8 |

| Passes into the final third | 7.08 | 1.73 |

| Clearances | 3.38 | 4.71 |

| Interceptions | 1.23 | 1.45 |

| Goals | 0.13 | 0.09 |

De Ligt’s previous experience with Erik ten Hag at Ajax suggests he will quickly adapt to the manager’s tactics. Despite some of ten Hag’s prior Ajax signings struggling in the Premier League, De Ligt’s experience could ease his transition.

**Man Utd Will Be Getting a ‘World-Class’ Defender**

Bayern Munich’s sporting director, Christoph Freund, has lauded De Ligt, describing him as a world-class defender. “He’s a really important part of the team. We have three world-class centre-backs and we will need them all.

The situation is of course not easy for him at the moment, he wants to play. But I’m convinced he will play a lot more games within the next few months. He always gives his all in training.”

While Everton’s Branthwaite shows great potential and is expected to become a top player, De Ligt offers immediate readiness.

Despite being early in his career, De Ligt has already played for top clubs like Ajax, Juventus, and Bayern, bringing valuable experience to Manchester United’s defense.