Manchester United have completed a sensational £60 million double deal for Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui.
After flying to the UK on Monday, the defensive duo signed long-term contracts.
De Ligt, 25, is the club’s third acquisition this summer, joining Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee. He also posed in the third kit.
He insists that boss Erik ten Hag will be able to bring out the best in him at Old Trafford.Matthijs de Ligt is Manchester United’s new number four.
The Dutch defender stated, “As soon as I heard Manchester United wanted me, I was excited about the opportunity for a new challenge at such a historic club.”
“In the meetings that followed, I was impressed by the vision that the football leadership laid forth, as well as the role they saw for me within it.
“Erik ten Hag helped mould the early parts of my career, so he understands how to get the most out of me, and I can’t wait to work with him again.
“I know what it takes to succeed at the highest level, and I’m determined to continue that record at this special club.”
Fellow Bayern star Noussair Mazraoui, 26, was swiftly announced as the replacement for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who has joined West Ham.
De Ligt’s signing is thought to have cost roughly £45 million, whereas Mazraoui’s was only £15 million.
Mazraoui stated: “It’s a fantastic feeling to be a Manchester United player, and I can’t wait to walk out at Old Trafford wearing the red shirt.
“I know that I’m joining the club at an exciting time; everyone I’ve spoken to has the same ambition for us to win trophies together and I can feel the determination to achieve that.”
De Ligt’s contract will last until June 2029, with an option for an additional year, and Mazraoui’s will last until June 2028, likewise with an option.
Both guys are former Ajax teammates who spent several seasons under Ten Hag in the Dutch city.
They will now hope to get straight into the starting lineup when United host Fulham at Old Trafford on Friday night.
Ten Hag currently has five former Ajax players in his roster, having signed Andre Onana, Antony, and Lisandro Martinez.
What did Dan Ashworth say?
Here’s what Manchester United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, thought of the club’s new additions…
On Mattijs de Ligt?
He stated, “Matthijs is a superb defender and proven winner who will contribute quality, experience, and leadership to our current senior squad.
“He has already enjoyed considerable success in his career, and we are convinced that his best years are still ahead; we want to help him achieve them at Manchester United.”
About Noussair Mazraoui?
He stated, “Noussair is a dynamic, attacking full-back who can play on both the right and left sides of the defence. His experience and versatility will make him an invaluable addition to our team.
“Having already won a number of trophies in his career, we know that Noussair’s winning mentality will be a real asset to the group as we work together to deliver the success required of Manchester United.”
United’s Dutch connection has become even deeper this summer, with the acquisition of Euros star Zirzkee.
Meanwhile, fan favourite Ruud van Nistelrooy has joined Rene Hake as one of Ten Hag’s new assistants.
United’s new acquisitions come only days after they lost the Community Shield to Manchester City on penalties.