Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Fri 19 July 2024 17:00, UK

Man United are making Matthijs de Ligt the “number one” defensive target for the remainder of thew window, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Premier League giants are still searching for another central defender despite signing Leny Yoro.

Even though the 20-time champions have been in talks to sign other players, the 24-year-old Dutch defender is ahead of everyone else on their transfer list.

United are still planning on bringing in two starting centre-backs before the 31st August cut-off.

Munich have been attempting to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tar, but the Bundesliga giants can only bring him in once De Ligt leaves.

United are trying to capitalise on Munich not getting that deal over the line as they look to rebuild their defence for next season.

The Premier League giants have made two bids for Jarrad Branthwaite this summer, but sources say the two clubs are far apart on their valuation of him.

Man United could reunite De Ligt and Ten Hag

With Yoro already in the door at Old Trafford and another central defender likely on the way, Erik ten Hag’s defensive restructure is making clear progress.

Football Insider previously reported that Munich are open to selling De Ligt, and he’s keen on reuniting with Ten Hag.

The Netherlands international featured 30 times in all competitions last season under Thomas Tuchel but didn’t play a single minute at the 2024 Euros.

United have had a busy transfer window so far, with Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee joining the club.

Meanwhile, it was confirmed this week that Mason Greenwood has departed on a permanent transfer to Marseille.

In other news, Man United plot move for Tottenham star.

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