On May 22nd, we carried a report from Sport, who explained that optimism is ‘not very high’ at Barcelona over signing Matthijs de Ligt because the Ajax captain has received several better economic proposals.

The 19-year-old is waiting for the La Liga winners to table an improved offer, but it was explained the latter were unwilling to meet the demands of the centre-back.

Sport now claims Manchester United are ‘one of the top contenders’ to secure the services of the Netherlands international.

Two weeks ago, the Red Devils tabled a proposal for five years, worth €14m per season, but he turned it down. The Catalan newspaper states Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side have ‘significantly improved’ their offer and are waiting for a response from the defender.

Manchester United’s offer is ‘tempting’ and they hope he says ‘yes’ to join them in the summer transfer window.

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The 20-time English champions have given an ultimatum to the Dutchman and if his answer is negative, they will discard his signing.

Sport states De Ligt has doubts about succeeding in the Premier League and believe United have gone as far as they can.



If De Ligt turns down the chance to make a switch to Old Trafford, this would come as encouragement for Barcelona.