Man United's dream 20-man Premier League squad with Matthijs de Ligt and three more signings

Just six weeks stand between Manchester United and their 2024/25 Premier League opener against Fulham at Old Trafford on August 16.

The Reds will begin their pre-season campaign in just over a week's time, facing Norwegian side Rosenborg less than 24 hours after the final of the European Championship, meaning time is running out for them to parade a new signing at the Lerkendal Stadion. However, United are hopeful of getting a deal over the line for Bayern Munich centre-back Matthijs de Ligt.

Bayern are understood to be prepared to sell the Dutchman, who is valued at around £42million. Signing him would send out a statement of intent.

READ MORE: United handed Alejandro Garnacho boost

READ MORE: Matthijs de Ligt would be a transfer nine years in the making at United

Despite reservations from some corners about his recent injury record, it was not all that long ago he was regarded as one of the most promising centre-backs in the world. At the age of just 24, there is time for him to reclaim that status.

United want to sign two centre-backs this summer to cover the exit of Raphael Varane and anticipated departure of Victor Lindelof. The latter is now into the final year of his contract at Old Trafford and the club wants to sell him.

Irrespective of their pursuit of De Ligt, who would be reunited with Erik ten Hag if brought to Old Trafford, United retain an interest in Jarrad Branthwaite. But with Everton valuing the England international between £70m-£80m, it feels unlikely they would be able to sign him in addition to De Ligt.

It means United could be forced to take their search for a secondary centre-back elsewhere. But with De Ligt and Lisandro Martinez likely to form Ten Hag's preferred partnership, signing