Sky Sports Journalist: Ten Hag personally wants “monster” defender before deadline, he had Ronaldo’s Man Utd shirt
Erik ten Hag, formerly at Ajax, steered the team to the Champions League semifinals during his tenure, defeating heavyweights Real Madrid and Juventus.
However, they narrowly missed the final, with a late goal from Tottenham’s Lucas Moura proving decisive.
Upon joining Manchester United, Ten Hag reunited with Donny van de Beek, a key player from the Ajax squad.
However, Van de Beek’s fortunes at Old Trafford haven’t flourished, leading to a loan move to Eintracht Frankfurt. Another Ajax alum, goalkeeper Andre Onana, hopes for success at United after joining last summer.
Recent reports suggest that Ten Hag is keen on acquiring another former protégé, this time in defense, with a potential opportunity arising due to limited playing time.
De Ligt’s Frustration and Potential Move:
Sky Sports Germany indicates Ten Hag is “very interested” in signing Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich.
The likelihood of this move hinges on Ten Hag retaining his managerial role, given United’s current struggles in seventh place. De Ligt could become a prominent transfer target in the summer if Ten Hag remains in charge.
Bayern, having recently acquired Eric Dier from Tottenham, seeks another center-back, with Nordi Mukiele from PSG and Ronald Araujo from Barcelona mentioned as potential targets.
De Ligt, concerned about potentially becoming the fourth choice in his position, is open to the possibility of a transfer.
De Ligt’s Background and Potential Appeal of United:
Matthijs de Ligt left Ajax for Juventus in a €86 million deal before moving to Bayern for €67 million.
While his initial season in the Bundesliga earned him accolades, this year has seen him fall down the pecking order, starting only four of the 10 available matches.
A move to United holds appeal for De Ligt, not just due to his prior success under Ten Hag but also because of a sentimental connection.
Having idolized Cristiano Ronaldo as a child, particularly during Ronaldo’s time at Manchester United, De Ligt admired his former boss, labeling him “an excellent trainer” with many qualities.
Furthermore, the prospect of donning the Red Devils’ shirt, the same team Ronaldo played for during De Ligt’s childhood, adds an emotional layer to the potential transfer, presenting the chance for the talented defender to fulfill a childhood dream.
