Matthijs De Ligt transfer delay explained as new Manchester United stance emerges

Manchester United are still working on a deal to sign Matthijs de Ligt.

United are hopeful of signing the Bayern Munich defender as Erik ten Hag looks to strengthen his squad this summer. Joshua Zirkzee has already been signed from Bologna on a long-term deal to become the Reds' first signing of the transfer window.

Ten Hag is looking to sign at least two centre-backs this summer with De Ligt a known target. Lille star Leny Yoro and Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite are also of interest to United this summer.

United have already reached a verbal agreement over personal terms with De Ligt. The centre-back is thought to be valued at £42million by Bayern who are said to be willing to do business over his future this summer.

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De Ligt has seemingly been on the verge of signing for United for a couple of weeks. However, days have continued to pass by and the defender is yet to be announced as a new United player.

A report in The Athletic has explained the reason why a deal to bring De Ligt to Old Trafford has yet to be announced. The article claims that even though United do have an interest in both De Ligt and Yoro, there isn't an expectation of signing both players.

As a result, it has been suggested that United are waiting to see if they can convince Yoro to join the club before committing to a deal for De Ligt. United have already had a bid accepted by Lille for Yoro but the decision on a deal being completed rests on where the player wants to go.

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