Matthijs de Ligt, the talented centre-back of Bayern Munich, could be on the move this summer as both Arsenal and Manchester United have expressed interest in acquiring his services.
De Ligt, who joined the Bundesliga champions from Juventus in July 2022, is currently in his second season with the club. During his time at Bayern, he has made a total of 55 competitive appearances and contributed four goals.
Despite having a contract until June 2027, the Dutch international’s future at the Allianz Arena is uncertain. According to reports from German outlet Bild, Bayern may decide to sell De Ligt at the end of the current season.
The strained relationship between De Ligt and Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel seems to be a contributing factor.
Tuchel has often chosen Kim Min-jae and Dayot Upamecano as his preferred centre-back pairing, which has limited De Ligt’s playing time. This season, De Ligt has only made 12 competitive appearances, with just four starts in the Bundesliga, due to selection decisions and injury setbacks.
De Ligt was hoping to secure a consistent spot in the Bayern backline while Kim Min-jae is away with South Korea at the Asian Cup. However, his plans have been put on hold after sustaining a knee injury during a training camp in Portugal.
The long-term future of De Ligt could be influenced by Bayern’s pursuit of Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo in the summer transfer window. If Bayern successfully signs Araujo, it may further complicate De Ligt’s position at the club.
Arsenal, known for their interest in bolstering their defensive options, are closely monitoring De Ligt’s situation.
Despite having Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba as their main central defenders, the Gunners are keen to add depth to their backline. A potential move for the 24-year-old De Ligt could address this need.
Manchester United has also emerged as a contender for De Ligt’s signature, with coach Erik ten Hag looking to reunite with the player he once managed at Ajax.
The Red Devils are actively searching for new defenders, as Jonny Evans’ contract expires in the summer and there is uncertainty surrounding Raphael Varane’s future.