Sports Update
Matthijs de Ligt makes an enthusiastic five-word statement as he takes a plane to Manchester United.
Last Monday, Manchester United and Bayern Munich finalized an agreement to sign Matthijs de Ligt.
Matthijs De Ligt revealed that Noussair Mazraoui was waiting for him at Munich Airport before they flew to Manchester.
The Red Devils named the Bayern Munich stars as their top defensive targets after signing Leny Yoro from Lille, and they have been pursuing the pair for the past few weeks, with a joint bid for the pair previously rejected.
Two separate agreements were completed late last week, and both players are already on their way to England to sign contracts with Erik ten Hag’s team.
De Ligt was photographed arriving at Munich Airport ahead of his journey to Manchester, and he disclosed that his current and soon-to-be teammate Mazraoui was also there.
The Dutch international told Sky Sports Germany: “Noussair is waiting for me!” It has also been stated that De Ligt arrived late at the airport.
Mazraoui has also been recorded carrying his bag ahead of his travel to Old Trafford, where he will sign a deal until 2029 with the option to extend it for another year.
United’s pursuit of Mazraoui has been fraught with uncertainty, as the agreement was contingent on Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s willingness to leave the club. The ex-Crystal Palace ace first stated that he would be willing to leave if Inter Milan came calling, but a deal with the Serie A club never materialised.
West Ham then signed the right-back after failing to sign Mazraoui, although it took some time to persuade Wan-Bissaka to agree to personal terms. The 26-year-old eventually accepted the move, allowing United to proceed with their own plans.
However, the arrivals of De Ligt and Mazraoui are unlikely to be the end of United’s transfer dealings this summer, with at least one midfield reinforcement being sought.
The Red Devils had earlier identified Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte as their primary target in those central regions, but the premium for getting the Uruguay international’s services was deemed too high, and other options are now being considered.
Sander Berge of Sheffield United is among those named to the shortlist. A second contract for Sofyan Amrabat is also being examined after the Fiorentina player impressed during his season-long stay at the club.