Manchester United have announced the signing of Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich, with the centre-back joining the 20-time English champions on an initial five-year contract.

De Ligt has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford over the last few weeks and is believed to have agreed personal terms with the Red Devils in the early stages of July.

Man United's desire to get a move for Leny Yoro over the line saw the proposed deal for De Ligt stall, but the Netherlands international underwent a medical with Erik ten Hag's side on Monday, and it has now been confirmed that he has joined the English giants on a five-year deal, with the option of a further 12 months.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Man United have paid Bayern €45m (£38.5m) plus €5m (£4.3m) in add-ons for De Ligt, who could make his debut in Friday's Premier League opener with Fulham.

"Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Matthijs de Ligt has joined the club, subject to registration. The Netherlands international has signed a contract until June 2029, with the option to extend for a further year," read a statement on the club's official website.

De Ligt 'excited by Man United challenge'

De Ligt, meanwhile, has said: "As soon as I heard that Manchester United wanted me, I felt an excitement about the opportunity for a new challenge at such an historic club. In the conversations that followed, I was impressed by the vision that the football leadership set out, and the role they saw for me in it.

"Erik ten Hag shaped the early stages of my career, so he knows how to get the best out of me and I cannot wait to work with him again. I know what it takes to succeed at the highest level, and I'm determined to continue that record at this special club.

Man United sporting director Dan Ashworth also praised the "outstanding defender" after the deal was confirmed, telling the club's official website: "Matthijs is an outstanding defender and proven winner who will add quality, experience and leadership to our existing group of senior players.

"He has already enjoyed considerable success in his career, and we are convinced that his best years are still ahead; we want to help him achieve them at Manchester United."

De Ligt has left Bayern having made 73 appearances for the German giants in all competitions, and he has reunited with Ten Hag following their time together at Ajax.

De Ligt posts farewell message to Bayern's supporters

"Dear Bayern fans, I want to thank each and every one of you for all your love and support. I have spent two amazing years playing for this beautiful club. It has been a true honour to have played for a club like Bayern Munich," he wrote on Instagram.

"We have achieved unforgettable moments together. Winning the title as well as several amazing CL-nights. These memories will stay with me forever.

"This is why leaving this club feels bittersweet. I will always remember the love and support I have received from the players, the staff members and from the fans. The recent petition signed by so many of you has touched me deeply.

"Thank you all for the two amazing years. I wish FC Bayern good luck winning many more titles, like Bayern has always done. Mia San Mia."

Man United have announced the signing of Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern, meanwhile, and the Morocco international is also set to be available for Friday's league opener against Fulham. body check tags ::