Manchester United have opened talks to sign Matthijs de Ligt from Juventus, according to reports.
As part of their impending rebuild under Erik ten Hag, who managed Netherlands international De Ligt during their time together at Ajax, key figures in the Old Trafford boardroom are working towards signing five players in time for next season. That shortlist includes a new centre-back.
Jurrien Timber has been earmarked as a priority in that regard, but question marks remain over his future and in the event of him staying put in the Eredivisie, United would need to look elsewhere. They wanted De Ligt as far back as 2019 when he instead opted to sign for Juventus after leaving Ajax.
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Fast forward three years and, naturally, the 22-year-old defender has been linked with a switch to Old Trafford due to his existing relationship with Ten Hag. United already want to sign his international teammate Frenkie de Jong, so a reunion could be on the cards.
Calciomercato suggest United have taken steps towards signing De Ligt for around £60million. He has two years left to run on his Juventus contract and has played 37 games for the national team.
Elsewhere, departing striker Edinson Cavani could team up with another former United player when settling on his next move. Cavani will leave Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of this month - and has been heavily linked with several clubs in Europe and South America.
Boca Juniors are among the frontrunners for his signature after two years with United. According to a report from Marca, though, the experienced Uruguayan has 'offered his services' to La Liga side Rayo Vallecano. That is currently where Radamel Falcao plies his trade.
Cavani scored 19 goals in 59 appearances for United after signing on a free.
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