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The necessity for Manchester United to bolster their squad has become increasingly evident during pre-season due to a series of injuries.
Following the setbacks faced by Rasmus Hojlund and Leny Yoro against Arsenal, Erik ten Hag provided further injury updates on five players after the match against Liverpool.
The central defense has been particularly affected, with Yoro joined by Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelof, and Harry Maguire as players whose fitness needs careful monitoring.
This situation has renewed focus on the pursuit of Matthijs de Ligt, a chase that had seemingly been paused.
Recently, Manchester United submitted a double bid for Bayern Munich duo De Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, as the pair have been deemed expendable by their current club.
Although this bid was rejected, negotiations continue with optimism for a resolution that satisfies all parties involved.
Bayern Munich director breaks silence on De Ligt transfer
As talks persist, Bayern Munich’s sporting director, Max Eberl, has publicly addressed the potential move for the first time.
According to Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany, the transfer is “imminent.”
Eberl commented: “I will comment on it (the reasons for the upcoming move to Man United) when the time comes.
“It is not the time yet. Matthijs has played very well here for two years, and that’s why many fans like him.
“Nevertheless, you have to think about how you make decisions and also how the boy feels.
“He is still a player of FC Bayern. And as long as he is, he will get all our support.”
Eberl’s remarks imply that De Ligt’s transfer to Old Trafford this summer is a matter of when, not if.
However, his statement “now is not the time yet” underscores Bayern’s commitment to their asking price.
Reports indicate that United were “bemused” by the rejection of their double bid, considering Bayern’s apparent lack of use for either player.
Nonetheless, the Bavarians are intent on extracting a higher price from United.
Eberl’s comments also suggest that De Ligt has expressed his desire for a move, noting the importance of considering “how the boy feels.”
The remaining hurdle is the agreement between the clubs, as the terms with the player are already settled.
Amid their injury crisis at center-back, United are wary of being exploited by rivals who may see this as an opportunity.
The ongoing negotiations resemble a high-stakes game of poker, with United deciding whether to meet Bayern’s demands or if the pressure on Bayern will increase as the transfer window nears its close.
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