How Man Utd’s De Ligt lowball valuation differs from Branthwaite
Erik ten Hag wants to bring Matthijs de Ligt to Manchester United, but there’s a catch.
Bayern Munich wants up to £60 million, while the Premier League giants are only willing to pay £30 million for the 24-year-old.
The club’s new co-owners, Ineos, have been accused of making offers far below the actual valuation of players this window. In the case of the Dutchman, this accusation certainly rings true. FootballTransfers’ Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) algorithm ranks De Ligt at €50.6m, meaning such an offer would fall short of the player’s market value.
The player has struggled with game time and injuries but is still contracted to Bayern until 2027, and his age is also a factor.
Meanwhile, Man Utd made an offer for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite earlier this month. The offer, which was rejected by the Toffees, was said to be around £35m The youngster enjoyed a brilliant season at Goodison Park last term, contributing significantly to the club’s survival amid a points deduction.
Man Utd look to midfield targets
Furthermore, the club reportedly put in an offer for Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte. Reporter Ben Jacobs said that an offer was made by the Red Devils for £25 million, but the midfielder was deemed to be worth double that—£50 million.
Man Utd are looking to bolster their backline after Raphael Varane was released at the end of the season, and doubts remain over the futures of both Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire. Jonny Evans could yet be given a one-year contract extension but it depends on who they bring in.
