Matthijs de Ligt uncertainty at Bayern Munich puts Manchester United on 'red alert' - Paper Round

Manchester United could have the opportunity of signing Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich this summer, according to the Mirror.

De Ligt has started just six matches in all competitions for Bayern this season, and United could be tempted to make a move for the Netherlands international when the campaign ends.

An article in the Mirror reads: "According to German outlet BILD, a summer departure is possible for the ex-Ajax defender due to issues between him and his manager. It's said that Erik ten Hag's side are interested in De Ligt and the Red Devils are being put on red alert over a potential move for the Netherlands international.

"Earlier this season, it was reported De Ligt was becoming 'increasingly annoyed' over his lack of game, having failed to start any of Bayern's first four Bundesliga matches. At the time, BILD claimed the Dutchman stormed out of the Allianz Arena after being an unused substitute in their 4-3 win over Manchester United.

"De Ligt's long-term future has become more uncertain after Bayern expressed an interest in signing Barcelona's Ronald Araujo, who could leave the Catalan giants this summer."

Arsenal “have joined Manchester United in the race to sign Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite”, claims a report in The Sun.

Branthwaite has helped The Toffees keep seven Premier League clean sheets so far this season and is reportedly attracting the interest of Arsenal and United, while Real Madrid have also been linked.

With injuries disrupting their defence throughout this term, Erik ten Hag’s side are “keen to sign a centre-back this month”.

The Sun’s article continues: “Arsenal are also admirers of Branthwaite according to talkSPORT, so the youngster could be the subject of a transfer tussle.

“The report adds Newcastle and Real Madrid are also keeping tabs on Branthwaite, with Carlo Ancelotti previously managing the 21-year-old while at Goodison Park.

“Everton could be forced to sell too due to their problems with Financial Fair Play."

Manchester City want a £7 million loan fee for Kalvin Phillips, which is reportedly hindering progress on a potential move for the midfielder.

The Guardian claims Phillips - who is yet to start a Premier League game this season - is "under pressure to secure a move this month", with Crystal Palace, Newcastle and West Ham tracking the midfielder. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also said to be interested.

The article continues: "The cost attached to loaning Phillips could scupper his hopes of a move. Interested parties are reluctant to pay £7m for a player who will be with them for less than half a season. There is hope that the fee will drop as the transfer deadline approaches, with Phillips clearly not part of Pep Guardiola’s plans.

"He is a regular England international and his struggle to establish himself at City has not stopped clubs chasing him. Newcastle’s injury crisis has prompted them to look for a midfielder and West Ham have a long-term interest in Phillips. David Moyes tried to buy him from Leeds in January 2022.

"Palace have space after losing Cheikh Doucouré with a long-term injury, while Barça and Atlético can offer Champions League football."

- - -

TNT Sports presents the premium live sports rights previously carried by BT Sport including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League, Gallagher Premiership Rugby, Investec Champions Cup, EPCR Challenge Cup, MotoGP, Cricket, UFC, Boxing and WWE. The streaming home for TNT Sports in the UK is discovery+, where fans can enjoy a subscription that includes TNT Sports, Eurosport and entertainment in one destination. You can also watch TNT Sports through BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.