Graeme Souness claims that Manchester United’s €45 million worth Matthijs de Ligt will FLOP in the Premier League

Scottish legend Graeme Souness doubted Manchester United's new signing Matthijs de Ligt's abilities, predicting he could be a 'flop.'

Graeme Souness claims that Manchester United’s €45 million worth Matthijs de Ligt will FLOP in the Premier League

Graeme Souness predicts Manchester United's new signing Matthijs de Ligt to end up as a 'flop'. (via The Independent)

Former Scottish legend Graeme Souness expressed doubts over Manchester United’s new signing Matthijs de Ligt. The 71-year-old former player predicted De Ligt, who joined from Bayern Munich this summer, might end up being a ‘flop.’

Matthijs de Ligt has signed a five-year deal with Manchester United, valued at €45 million. The 25-year-old is United’s fourth summer signing, as a part of a major squad overhaul under manager Erik ten Hag. The club had previously signed Leny Yoro, followed by the double signing of De Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern. Additionally, the Dutch defender is reuniting with Ten Hag, his former coach at Ajax from a few years ago.

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However, ex-Liverpool legend Souness has cast doubt on De Ligt’s potential to thrive in the EPL, calling him ‘lightweight’. He criticized United’s choice, citing the 25-year-old’s lackluster display at both Juventus and Bayern. Souness also added that despite their usual reluctance to sell players, both clubs were keen to offload De Ligt. Furthermore, he raised concerns about the center-back’s limited playing time for the Dutch national team at the Euros.

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I'm doubtful about De Ligt. He didn't get into the national team at the Euros, he was only a squad player. I'm not sure if he's what Manchester United need at this time. When I look at him I see a lightweight center-half.
Graeme Souness on Man Utd signing Matthijs de Ligt (via TalkSport)

Despite these concerns, the ex-Ajax defender will be determined to prove himself at Old Trafford. After falling to third-choice at Bayern behind Kim Min-Jae and Dayot Upamecano, De Ligt is eager to secure a starting role under Ten Hag.

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Manchester United defender Harry Maguire makes transfer decision following Matthijs de Ligt arrival

Harry Maguire has decided on his future at Old Trafford following Manchester United’s recent acquisition of Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich. The 31-year-old defender is determined to stay and compete for his spot in the team.

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Manchester United defender Harry Maguire (R) has no intention to leave, despite Matthijs de Ligt (L) arrival. (via BBC)

The ex-Leicester City defender has struggled for playing time in recent seasons, and the signings of De Ligt and Leny Yoro have only intensified the competition. Despite potentially being the fourth-choice center-back, the 31-year-old is determined to fight for his spot and has no intention of leaving.

Whether the former Red Devils captain will keep his place in the squad is still uncertain. Although there have been rumors of interest from West Ham for a potential transfer, these have been dismissed.

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