Matthijs de Ligt: 'Manchester United speculation is funny'

In-demand Ajax captain Matthijs de Ligt has laughed off links with a big-money move to Manchester United.

Reports emerged earlier this week suggesting that the Netherlands international favoured a move to United over the likes of Barcelona, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich because of the wages on offer.

De Ligt has been quick to play down rumours that he could be on his way to Old Trafford, however, giving Barcelona - who have made no secret of their desire to push through a deal for the 19-year-old - renewed hope.

"I have read the news about Manchester United," he is quoted as saying by Fox Sports. "They are funny stories - people should take the media with a pinch of salt."

De Ligt has two years to run on his existing Ajax deal and has not ruled out the possibility of staying in Amsterdam for at least another 12 months.