Manchester United target Matthijs de Ligt under investigation over ‘hit-and-run’ crash

Manchester United’s top transfer target Matthijs de Ligt is reportedly being investigated over a suspected ‘hit-and-run’ crash.

The 24-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League this summer and was left out of Bayern Munich’s squad for their pre-season tour of South Korea last month.

But the Netherlands international is now the subject of a probe by German police after he was accused of ‘ramming a parked car’ and fleeing the scene near Bayern’s Sabener Strasse training ground on Wednesday morning.

De Ligt was behind the wheel of his £63,000 Audi Q8 e-tron when the alleged incident happened, according to BILD.

It’s claimed he ‘simply drove away’ after the crash – but his car was later towed and impounded by police.

If found guilty of the offence, the centre back could potentially face the maximum penalty of a prison sentence, although a fine is more likely.

Specialist lawyer Marc Wederhake, from Munich, told BILD: ‘If convicted, you face up to three years in prison or a fine. Fines are often imposed when people are convicted of such crimes.’

Katharina Thueuerkaufer, a specialist lawyer for criminal and traffic law from Stolzenau, said of the incident: ‘A hit-and-run can only be committed intentionally.

‘Now it must be proven that he perceived the accident acoustically, visually or tangibly.’ 

Erik ten Hag has been looking to bolster his defensive options after new £52m signing Leny Yoro was ruled out for three months with a broken foot last week.

United have held talks with the Bundesliga giants but the clubs remain £10m apart in their valuation of the player with Bayern holding out for £42m.

The Red Devils are also chasing the signature of Bayern right back Noussair Mazraoui, who has reportedly already agreed personal terms.

However, a joint offer of £51m for the Moroccan defender and De Ligt was rejected and Bayern are demanding in the region of £64m for the pair.

Any move for Mazraoui is now also thought to hinge on Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s departure.

United had previously shown a keen interest in Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite but are thought to be struggling to meet the hefty £70m price tag.

Ten Hag has also warned the club need to adhere to PSR and FFP rules in the transfer market.

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