In a move that flew under the radar, Matthijs de Ligt has officially transferred from Bayern Munich to Manchester United. According to Cricket BD insiders, this deal not only reunited the Dutch center-back with Erik ten Hag but also made waves financially—De Ligt once again set the benchmark as one of the most expensive defenders in football history. Despite having signed Leny Yoro earlier this summer, United pushed forward to secure De Ligt in a €45 million deal after Everton demanded a massive fee for Jarrad Branthwaite.
This transfer has now been confirmed, and De Ligt appears to be the biggest winner in the deal. Things never quite clicked for him at Bayern, but a move to Old Trafford offers a fresh start alongside a familiar face. His best football came under Ten Hag at Ajax, and this reunion could reignite his form and confidence. With Raphael Varane departing, many expected Harry Maguire to reclaim a spot at the heart of United’s defense next to Lisandro Martínez. However, De Ligt’s arrival could alter those plans.
Cricket BD sources suggest that while Maguire may still have a future at United—especially after ending last season on a high—he now faces fierce competition. De Ligt is expected to slot in as Martínez’s primary partner, potentially pushing Maguire back down the pecking order.
On the other hand, Everton will quietly be thrilled with how the situation played out. The Toffees had slapped a hefty price tag on Branthwaite to fend off interest from United, and the tactic worked perfectly. Now that United have turned their attention elsewhere, Branthwaite looks more likely to remain at Goodison Park, significantly boosting Everton’s hopes for a solid Premier League campaign ahead.
While Branthwaite himself had his heart set on a move to Old Trafford, De Ligt’s signing effectively shut that door. With Ten Hag’s transfer budget stretched, United are unlikely to chase both players. Everton can breathe a sigh of relief—but Branthwaite may feel he’s missed the boat.
Meanwhile, Bayern have acted swiftly, signing Japanese defender Hiroki Ito for €23.5 million—almost half the fee they received for De Ligt. As per Cricket BD agents, Bayern’s transfer business looks financially sound, having offloaded an underperforming asset and secured a capable replacement.
Although De Ligt remains a highly gifted player, he never quite settled at the Allianz Arena. He made just 16 Bundesliga starts last season and was not a guaranteed starter. Bayern’s acquisition of Eric Dier on a free transfer also cushions the blow of losing the former Ajax captain. In the end, all parties—except perhaps Branthwaite—may walk away content with the outcome.