Manchester United has made a significant statement in the transfer market, signing two key defenders from Bayern Munich on Tuesday. Dutch center-back Matthijs de Ligt, 25, agreed to a five-year contract with the option for an additional year, joining the Red Devils after a successful stint in Germany. Welcoming de Ligt to the team, Manchester United announced the signing on social media with the hashtag #MUFC.
Meanwhile, Moroccan full-back Noussair Mazraoui, 26, has also signed for United. Known for his versatility, Mazraoui can play both right-back and left-back, offering tactical flexibility to the squad. He has signed a contract until June 2028 with the option for an additional year.
While official transfer fees haven’t been disclosed, British media reports suggest that Manchester United paid a combined 60 million pounds ($77 million) for both players.
These arrivals follow the departure of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who has left United after five years to join Premier League rivals West Ham for a reported fee of 15 million pounds ($19 million). Wan-Bissaka, known for his strong one-on-one defending, will compete with Vladimir Coufal for the right-back position at West Ham. He returns to London, where he started his professional career at Crystal Palace.
These transfers mark a major overhaul of Manchester United’s defensive line. Earlier this window, they strengthened the backline by signing 18-year-old center-back Leny Yoro from Lille for 62 million euros ($68 million). The club is clearly determined to build a robust defense for the upcoming season.
