It seems Manchester will soon welcome not just one, but two new stars with the De Ligt name this summer. The Netherlands’ international center-back is set to make Old Trafford his new home, accompanied by his glamorous wife.

Manchester United has signed 25-year-old Matthijs de Ligt on a four-year contract, transferring him from Bayern Munich for £38.5 million, and his partner, Annekee Molenaar, is ready to embrace life in Manchester.

With over 434,000 Instagram followers, 24-year-old Annekee has gained fame in her own right as a model. She’s graced international publications, and after a successful stint with the Wilma agency, made headlines in September 2019 by appearing on the cover of Vogue Netherlands.

Her online presence has transformed her into an influencer, with her popularity surging since she began dating Matthijs in 2018 during his Ajax days, a time when she already had deep roots in Dutch football.

Previously, Ten Hag’s primary target in 2022 was another Dutchman, Frenkie de Jong. Despite United’s long pursuit, the transfer failed to materialize, reportedly due to De Jong’s reluctance to waive deferred wages owed by his club.

With De Jong’s contract set to expire in 2026, speculation is expected to heat up again next summer. This time, United may have found the perfect ally in Annekee to attract De Ligt and his partner to the Manchester scene.