According to a recent report by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are plotting a move for AFC Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt and are ready to match his valuation which is reported to be in the region of £63m in order to land him at the end of this campaign.
However, according to the Express, the Catalans could face stiff competition from the likes of Paris-Saint Germain, Juventus and Bayern Munich in pursuit of the Dutch prospect’s signature next summer.
De Ligt came through the youth ranks of Ajax before managing to break into their first-team back in 2016. Despite such a rapid rise in the Dutch top-flight, the Ajax defender has lived up to the high expectations surrounding his incredible potential and has put in some solid displays at the back for Ajax over the past couple of years.
The 19-year-old has featured in 29 matches for the Eredivisie giants this season and has three goals and one assist to his name across all competitions. At the tender age of 19, de Ligt has also managed to earn 13 international caps for the Dutch national team so far.
The Dutch wonderkid can be considered as one of the best young defenders in European football. He is a commanding presence at both ends of the pitch and is a threat from set-pieces as well. Moreover, the Eredivisie prospect is a great tackler and can make important interceptions inside his own half.
The AFC Ajax starlet has a very promising career ahead of him so Barca would do well to prise him away from the Dutch capital. At such a young age, he has shown great maturity and could be a world-class talent in his position in a few years time.
He can also play the ball out from the back which will make him a great asset at the Nou Camp. Ernesto Valverde’s brand of football will match his playing style quite well, so it makes sense for the player to join a club like Barcelona if the opportunity presents itself next summer. Hence, the Catalans should go all out to secure the services of the Ajax centre-back so that they have a long-term replacement for Gerard Pique.
