This summer, Manchester United has been instructed to sign a Premier League player rather than Matthijs de Ligt, who is a target for £42 million. If I was to be one of the senior managers of Man United, I will definitely listen to this 💔😒 Hopefully they will accept this

Liverpool legend Phil Thompson has raised concerns about Manchester United’s decision to pursue Matthijs de Ligt, fearing the Dutch defender might face a similar fate to Raphael Varane at Old Trafford.

With Varane’s exit, United manager Erik ten Hag, who recently extended his contract despite rumors of his potential sacking last season, is set to acquire a new center-back this summer.

Bayern Munich, after two disappointing seasons with De Ligt, is open to transferring him to United, and negotiations appear to be progressing well.

Ten Hag, who previously coached De Ligt at Ajax, is keen to reunite with the 24-year-old defender at Old Trafford.

Currently with the Netherlands squad for Euro 2024 in Germany, De Ligt is anticipated to hasten his move from Bayern to United after the tournament.

However, former Sky Sports pundit Thompson doubts De Ligt’s suitability for United and suggests they should instead target Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.

Earlier in the summer, United’s offer for the English defender was rejected by Everton for being significantly below their valuation.

“Matthijs de Ligt is a good player, but Manchester United needs someone familiar with the Premier League,” Thompson told Paddy Power. “Raphael Varane from Real Madrid didn’t work out, and De Ligt might also need time to adapt, which United can’t afford.”

“Jarrad Branthwaite is a top-class player and a future England international. If I were in Manchester United’s position, I would go for him.”