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Written by Martin Graham | May 22 2022
Juventus have ended their plans to give Matthijs de Ligt a new contract to throw a wrench into Manchester United’s business to sign the Dutch defender.
De Ligt, 22, joined Juventus from Ajax Amsterdam in the 2019/20 season amid several potential destinations including Manchester United.
The Premier League giants have not lost interest in him and with the appointment of Eric ten Hag, former coach of De Ligt, their interest has increased and they have chased the defender once again.
The 52-year-old Dutchman is rebuilding United and wants to work with De Ligt again. It has also been reported that the defender is considering the move due to the opportunity to work with the coach that has made him one of the best defenders in the world and a hot commodity in the transfer market during their time at Ajax.
But Juventus, who counts de Ligt as one of their most important players, have taken steps to offer the former Ajax captain a new contract that improves the terms of his current deal. This is to get rid of Man United according to reports, but it could also be to increase his transfer value as United desperately need the transfer business in the summer.
It is understood that Juventus’ new deal with De Ligt will extend his current contract by two years from his original end date of 2024.
De Ligt is one of the youngest players in the Juventus squad with several players in their late twenties and thirties. His youth is a source of strength for the old lady, who wants to start over with the young players.
Ten Haag talks with Ragnick about Manchester United’s plans for next season
Meanwhile, Ten Hag is reported to have held several consultations with interim director Ralph Rangnick, who began his advisory role in June.
The Dutchman terminated his contract with Ajax early in order to get a head start at United and has been in serious talks with Rangnick over how to appoint the club ahead of next season.
Tin Hag announced this to reporters recently, noting that they haven’t spoken face to face yet but have been chatting via IM about the changes that need to be made.
“We have been in contact via WhatsApp and hope to have the opportunity to meet and speak in person, either over the weekend or Monday morning at the latest,” said Ten Hag. “I look forward to speaking with him personally and getting to know him personally.
“I still strongly believe that there is a group of better players, well deserved and good enough to play for this club, and I hope most of these players will stay here next season.
“If the board, Eric, the scouting department will help them with all the problems I can bring to their aid”
