Manchester United 'rule out Matthijs de Ligt move'

Manchester United have reportedly withdrawn from the race to sign Ajax captain Matthijs de Ligt.

United have been strongly linked with a move for the 19-year-old over the last few weeks.

Barcelona are still thought to lead the race, although it was recently claimed that Ernesto Valverde's side had lost control of the pursuit due to interest from elsewhere.

The 20-time English champions reportedly 'significantly improved their offer' for the Netherlands international last week in a bid to beat the Spanish champions to his signature.

However, according to Sky Sports News, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have now withdrawn from the race as the club feel that Barca have already completed a deal.

De Ligt scored seven times and contributed four assists in 55 appearances for Ajax as the Dutch giants landed a league and cup double during the 2018-19 season.