Andy Cole has warned Manchester United against signing Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt – someone who previously played under Erik ten Hag.
De Ligt is one of a number of centre-backs linked with United and the Netherlands international is reportedly open to leaving Munich having struggled for minutes this season.
Having been one of his star players at Ajax during their run to the Champions League semi-finals, Ten Hag had hoped to sign the defender when he first moved to Old Trafford in 2022, but he chose to join Bayern instead.
Prior to that, the 24-year-old had a decent but unspectacular spell at Juventus, leaving some unconvinced if he would perform well at United.
Furthermore, there is concern that he could be the latest in a line of players who have struggled at United having previously played for Ten Hag or that he’s encountered in the Eredivisie, including Andre Onana, Antony and Sofyan Amrabat.
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Asked if he was worried about the Red Devils’ links to De Ligt, United icon Cole told Betfred: ‘Yes it would because if he’s had tough times at both Juventus and Bayern Munich, then how can you suggest that he will be a success at Manchester United?
‘Matthijs is another player that’s played for Erik ten Hag and the majority of signings that Erik’s made during his time at the club have been players that he’s managed previously. The Premier League is a totally different league and the ocean is very, very big when it comes to players.
‘How many other managers in the Premier League have the same approach to transfers? Especially at the top, top level.
‘This is probably why there’s speculation suggesting that INEOS are going to restrict his influence over transfers. I think it’s a good thing to be fair because Manchester United can now cast their net wider.’
Another cente-back linked with Old Trafford is Jarrad Branthwaite, who is also of interest to Tottenham and Real Madrid, but Everton would want around £100m for the 21-year-old.
Cole isn’t totally convinced by Branthwaite either though, adding: ‘He’s done really well for Everton this season. When you’re performing for a struggling side and people are talking about your performances in a positive light, then you must be playing very well.
‘However, the question is, is he better than Harry Maguire? Harry Maguire since he’s come back into Manchester United’s team this season has played like the Harry Maguire we saw at Leicester City.
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‘Take away Jarrad’s age, is he better than Harry Maguire? Will he improve Manchester United? These are the questions that you need to ask yourself as a prospective buyer.
‘Manchester United need to buy players that improve their side because if they continue to buy players of a similar standard to what they’ve already got, then they’re not going to move forward.’
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