Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl issue Matthijs de Ligt update after ‘verbal agreement’

Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has broken his silence on the speculation linking Matthijs de Ligt with a move to Manchester United this summer

Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has spoken amid rumours that Matthijs de Ligt could be heading to Manchester United this summer.

In a major shake-up initiated by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s defence is set for a restructure with newcomer Leny Yoro from Lille joining as Raphael Varane’s replacement. Willy Kambwala has been sold and Victor Lindelof is reportedly up for sale.

Plans are in motion to bring in two more players, one of which may be Bayern’s Noussair Mazraoui, who is seen as a potential replacement for West Ham-linked Aaron Wan-Bissaka and could also cover at left-back.

United’s hopes remain high in attracting De Ligt away from the Allianz Arena this summer, despite a previous offer for the Dutch international being turned down.

Addressing the ongoing speculations, Bayern’s Eberl chose his words carefully when talking to Sky Sports Germany. “I will comment on the reasons when the time comes. It is not yet that time”,

“Matthijs played very well here for two years and that is why many fans like him. Nevertheless, you have to think about how you decide and also how the boy feels. He is still a player for FC Bayern. And as long as he is, he will get all the support from us.”

Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag is likely to be eager for a reunion with De Ligt, having previously managed the defender during their time together at Ajax. The former Juventus defender was also on his list of targets, but United’s previous attempts were unsuccessful.

De Ligt has already had extensive discussions with United, confirming his willingness to join the club this month. The 24-year-old has ‘verbally agreed’ to personal terms with the Red Devils, although no agreement has been reached between the two clubs yet.

To secure a deal with Bayern, United will need to fork out £42million, having previously considered a joint agreement involving Mazraoui. Securing De Ligt would enable the club to offload another central defender, as Lindelof is not expected to have a long-term future at