Manchester United have submitted a double bid to sign Bayern Munich pair Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, a report has revealed.
United are looking to bolster at the back this summer after last season’s significant battle with injury, with Bayern pair De Ligt and Mazraoui, both former charges of Erik ten Hag at Ajax, identified as leading targets.
The Athletic state that a bid has been lodged to sign both players but, despite optimism from the players’ representatives that the offer would meet Bayern’s asking price, the Bundesliga outfit have opted to reject the proposal.
Bayern have warned United that they must raise their offer to sign both De Ligt and Mazraoui, with talks expected to continue between the two sides.
De Ligt and Mazraoui are both represented by Rafaela Pimenta, who is understood to have been left surprised by Bayern’s decision to knock back the offer.
The pair have both been told they are free to leave Bayern this summer but, having seen United’s desire to get deals done met with resistance, De Ligt and Mazraoui have both been forced to speak with Bayern to determine whether there has been a change in the club’s stance.
Bayern remain adamant that De Ligt and Mazraoui can be sold for the right price but have made it clear they will need more money to entertain a double departure.
United have already agreed personal terms with both De Ligt and Mazraoui, who have approved five-year contracts with the option for an extra 12-month extension.
While United continue to try and strike a deal over a transfer fee, the Red Devils are expected to face delays while they make room for the pair through sales. At right-back, Aaron Wan-Bissaka may need to be sold to make space for Mazraoui, with West Ham United known admirers of the 26-year-old.