Manchester United have initiated discussions with Bayern Munich regarding the potential transfer of Matthijs de Ligt, with the player expressing a strong desire to join United, as reported by Sky in Germany. Bayern values the 24-year-old defender at €50m (£42.4m), with additional performance-based add-ons.

Erik ten Hag, who previously coached De Ligt at Ajax, is keen to include him in his plans at Old Trafford for the upcoming season. United are also maintaining interest in Jarrad Branthwaite, an English defender, but negotiations will depend on Everton lowering their asking price.

Additionally, Manchester United is in talks with Jonny Evans about extending his contract for another year. The 36-year-old centre-back featured prominently for United last season, making 23 appearances in the Premier League, the highest among all centre-backs at the club. Evans returned to United on a one-year deal last summer.