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Manchester United are preparing to face Fulham at Old Trafford on Friday, August 16, in their Premier League season opener. Erik ten Hag's team are coming off a shootout defeat to Manchester City in the FA Community Shield last weekend.
Meanwhile, the Red Devils have announced the arrival of centre-back Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich. Elsewhere, the English giants have also completed the signing of full-back Noussair Mazraoui from the Bavarians.
On that note, here's a look at the key Manchester United transfer stories as on August 14, 2024:
Manchester United announce Matthijs de Ligt deal
Manchester United have confirmed the arrival of Matthijs de Ligt at Old Trafford. The Red Devils were hot on the heels of the Dutchman this summer, despite signing Leny Yoro from Lille.
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The Frenchman's injury, picked up in pre-season, accelerated matters. Manager Erik ten Hag was eager to be reunited with De Ligt this year, having managed the 24-year-old at Ajax.
The Dutch defender was deemed surplus to requirements at Bayern Munich following the arrival of new manager Vincent Kompany. The Premier League giants were engaged in talks with the Bavarians for a while, and a breakthrough was reached.
At his unveiling, De Ligt added that Ten Hag played a big role in his decision to join Manchester United.
“As soon as I heard that Manchester United wanted me, I felt an excitement about the opportunity for a new challenge at such an historic club.
"In the conversations that followed, I was impressed by the vision that the football leadership set out and the role they saw for me in it," said De Ligt.
He continued:
“Erik ten Hag shaped the early stages of my career, so he knows how to get the best out of me, and I cannot wait to work with him again. I know what it takes to succeed at the highest level, and I’m determined to continue that record at this special club.”
De Ligt has been handed the No. 4 shirt at Old Trafford.
Red Devils sign Noussair Mazraoui
Naussair Mazraoui has completed his move to Old Trafford from Bayern Munich this summer, Manchester United have confirmed. Ten Hag was looking for a new right-back this summer, amid the uncertainties surrounding Aaron Wan-Bissaka's future.
The Englishman has completed a move to West Ham United this week. While Ten Hag has Diogo Dalot on his roster, he was keen to team up with Mazraoui. The Moroccan full-back played under Ten Hag at Ajax and is equally adept at both flanks.
Mazraoui could compete with Dalot for the right-back slot and also provide cover at left-back. The 26-year-old was eager to move to Old Trafford this summer and has now been granted his wish.
Speaking to the club's media, the Moroccan couldn't contain his excitement at joining the Red Devils.
“It’s an incredible feeling to be a Manchester United player, and I cannot wait to walk out at Old Trafford wearing the red shirt.
"I know that I’m joining the club at an exciting time. Everyone I’ve spoken to has the same ambition for us to win trophies together, and I can feel the determination to achieve that,” said Mazraoui.
He continued:
“Erik ten Hag played an important part in my development as a player, so it's exciting to be reuniting with him as I enter the prime years of my career.
"I know what he expects from his players, and I will give everything to help the group be successful.”
Mazraoui will wear the No. 3 shirt for the Premier League giants in the upcoming campaign.
Jadon Sancho ready for PSG move
Jadon Sancho is willing to join Paris Saint-Germain this summer, according to RMC Sport. The English forward had a public fallout with Ten Hag last season and was shipped back to Borussia Dortmund on loan in January.
The 24-year-old had a decent time at Signal Iduna Park, helping the club in their march to the UEFA Champions League final, where they lost 2-0 to Real Madrid. He returned to Manchester United in the summer and has since made up with Ten Hag.
Sancho was a part of the Red Devils' pre-season squad and also came off the bench against Manchester City in the Community Shield. However, recent reports have suggested that the Premier League giants are open to his departure.
The Parisians are in the market for attacking reinforcements this summer to address Kylian Mbappe's departure. They have identified Sancho as an option and have established contact with the player's entourage.
Manchester United are in negotiations with their French counterparts for midfielder Manuel Ugarte. Sancho could also come up in discussions, but a deal won't be easy to materialise.
The Red Devils apparently want at least €60 million to let the 24-year-old leave. The Ligue 1 champions may be reluctant to match that price, given Sancho's recent form. He's under contract at Old Trafford till 2026, so this summer represents the best bet to seek a premium for his signature.
