Manchester United have reportedly failed in their bid to sign Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt.

United are known to be in the transfer market for new additions to their backline, and De Ligt has emerged as one of the most highly-regarded prospects in European football.

The North-West giants have been prepared to go head to head with a number of teams in the race to secure the 19-year-old's signature, but it appears that the Netherlands international will not be making the switch to Old Trafford.

According to the Daily Star, De Ligt has rejected the opportunity to sign for United on a five-year contract in the summer.

Barcelona have long been regarded as the favourites to win the race for De Ligt, but the player's agent Mino Raiola is said to be against seeing the youngster move to Camp Nou.

De Ligt currently has just over two years remaining on his deal with Ajax.