Graeme Souness Slams Manchester United’s Plans to Sign Matthijs De Ligt
Manchester United are on the verge of announcing the signing of Matthijs De Ligt from Bayern Munich, but former Liverpool legend Graeme Souness is not convinced about the Dutch defender’s ability to boost the Red Devils’ backline. Here’s why.
De Ligt’s move to Old Trafford is reportedly all but done, with the 25-year-old set to become the club’s second summer signing after Wout Yoro. While the defender has enjoyed success in Italy and Germany, Souness doubts whether he has the quality to make an impact in the Premier League.
"I’m doubtful about De Ligt," the 72-year-old told TalkSPORT. "He didn’t break into the national team during the Euros; he was a squad member. He’s been at two massive clubs, and normally, they don’t like to sell their top players. That in itself tells a story."
Souness also has concerns about De Ligt’s lack of progress since his early career. "He was a star at Ajax, but has he gone on to improve since then?" The former Scotland international asked, seemingly unconvinced by the defender’s accomplishments.
Moreover, Souness believes Manchester United need a more robust center-half, citing Jonny Evans’s 23 appearances for the club as proof of the need for a reliable defender. While De Ligt has decent passing range, Souness views him as a "lightweight center-half" who prioritizes pretty football over defensive solidity.
His comments echo those of pundit and former England international Gareth Southgate, who recently hinted that De Ligt’s lack of aerial presence could be a significant issue in the Premier League.
So, do Manchester United need De Ligt? We think you have a say in this debate.
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