Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt has dented Manchester United’s hopes of signing him this summer by insisting he wants to remain in Germany.
The Dutchman has had a tough time in Bavaria, with De Ligt facing challenges with form and fitness.
The defender grew up at Ajax under Erik ten Hag before making an £80m move to Juventus.
However, his time in Italy hindered his progress, and he joined Bayern in 2022.
But De Ligt has even found himself behind Eric Dier under Thomas Tuchel this season.
The German manager is set to leave the Allianz Arena at the end of the season and De Ligt will see a third boss in as many years arrive at the club.
Ten Hag would love to sign De Ligt, especially considering United’s difficulties in central defence.
But the Netherlands international insists he wants to stay in Munich.
‘No, I’m very happy at FC Bayern,’ said De Ligt.
‘The club and the fans have always given me a lot of love. I feel good now. I’m very happy and hopefully we can still play very good games this season and go very far in the Champions League.
‘You can see it now with Upamecano and Kim: They haven’t said anything, but it’s written everywhere that some clubs want these players. That is often the problem and does not correspond to reality.’
Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans are expected to leave Old Trafford this summer, when their contracts expire.
Victor Lindelof could also be sold, leaving Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez as the only recognised centre-backs.
The club plan to buy at least two defenders this summer.
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