‘He’s a real defender’ – Neuer gives Manchester United-linked teammate a glowing reference

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has given Matthijs de Ligt a glowing reference as the defender seems set to leave Bavaria for Manchester United.

The Netherlands international has been heavily linked with a transfer to United this summer, but it remains to be seen if Bayern Munich will accept an offer from the Reds.

For instance, the latest proposal from United – a double swoop – was pushed back by the Bundesliga champions earlier this week.

Neuer made the following remarks when asked about De Ligt being a transfer candidate this summer in an interview with German sports magazine Kicker.

“I’ve always been very happy with him at my side,” Neuer said. “He’s a real defender who likes to fight; he throws himself into the fight, even in aerial duels, and he’s always there.

“I get on very well with him on the pitch, but in the end it’s the club that makes the decision.”

United need another centre-back this summer

With the news that Leny Yoro has been ruled out for three months with a foot injury, Erik ten Hag needs to go back into the market for a new centre-back.

Two names are topping the list as things stand. De Ligt and Jarrad Branthwaite are two prime targets worth keeping an eye between now and transfer deadline day.

Let us know in the comments section if you would prefer De Ligt or Branthwaite alongside Lisandro Martinez.

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