Man Utd’s big-money transfer target delivers fresh contract update amid Old Trafford links

Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt has revealed he is in talks over a new contract with the Serie A club, as whispers of a potential move to Manchester United continue.

The Dutch international has endured mixed fortunes since moving to the Turin giants in a reported £76.95million move from Ajax in July 2019.

After helping Juve to the Serie A title in his first year with the club and the Coppa Italia during the following campaign, de Ligt was left empty-handed as his ended last season without any silverware.

A second consecutive fourth placed finish secured a place in next season’s Champions League, but they suffered defeats to Inter in both the SuperCoppa Italia and the Coppa Italia.

The Champions League failed to bring any significant progress as Juve topped a group containing Chelsea, Zenit St Petersburg and Malmo before suffering a Round of 16 defeat against Spanish side Villarreal.

A number of Juve players have been linked with moves away from the club and talk of a move to Old Trafford for de Ligt has gathered monentum since his former Ajax head coach Erik ten Hag was appointed as United manager last month.

The defender has two years remaining on his current contract at the Serie A club but has now confirmed talks over a new deal are ongoing.

Intriguingly, he also gave an insight into what factors could decide whether he agrees to a new deal and remains with Juventus.

Speaking to Dutch news outlet NOS, he said: “Talks are currently being held and when the time comes, I will decide whether I will extend or whether I want to look further.

“I always look at what is best for myself in terms of sporting project. Fourth place in a row twice is not good enough, we will have to make steps in that direction.”

Dutch international de Ligt is currently preparing for a trio of Nations League fixtures as his side face a double header against Wales either side of a home game against Poland.