In a recent interview with the Liverpool Echo, former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher revealed that he would be delighted if the Reds ended up acquiring the services of AFC Ajax centre-back Matthijs de Ligt during the summer transfer period. When asked if he would like to see the Dutch defensive ace at Anfield, Carragher told Liverpool Echo, “I’d love that!
“I have never seen such a good defender at 19 years old. He plays as if he’s 29 and at his peak already.
“You can only imagine how good he will be when he actually is 29.”
Most of the Liverpool supporters will share the same sentiments as the former England international. De Ligt would be a dream fit alongside his international compatriot, Virgil Van Dijk at the Merseyside club which could sort out Liverpool’s defence for years to come.
De Ligt’s Remarkable Season So Far
The Ajax starlet has enjoyed an impressive campaign in the UEFA Champions League this season as his stellar defensive displays helped his club reach the semi-final stage of the competition where they were eventually knocked out by Tottenham Hotspur on away goals earlier this week.
The 19-year-old came through Ajax’s youth ranks before finally establishing himself as a first-team starter at the Johan Cruijff ArenA last year. He has featured in 53 matches for the Eredivisie giants this term, scoring seven goals while grabbing four assists across all competitions. More importantly, the Dutch international has made an average of 1.2 tackles, 1.3 interceptions and 4.0 clearances per game for Ajax thus far (Stats taken from Whoscored).
What Will De Ligt Bring To The Merseyside Club?
The Eredivisie starlet has a very bright future and could turn out to be a world-class defender in the coming years. The Dutch wonderkid is a reliable defender who can command his own box with authority and conviction. Furthermore, he can also read the game well which helps him make some important interceptions for his side.
De Ligt’s goals and assists tally in this campaign have been nothing short of remarkable as he is a centre-back by trade. He can be an aerial threat from set-pieces which only enhances his reputation in European football. Liverpool would be fortunate to acquire a player of De Ligt’s massive potential this summer.
Should Klopp Splash The Cash On Another Dutch Centre-Back?
The Ajax youngster could also learn and improve his game at a rapid rate if he moves to the red half of Merseyside as he would be playing under one of the best man-managers in world football in Jurgen Klopp. Having Van Dijk as a mentor playing alongside him will only help De Ligt in the long-run. Hence, the Merseyside outfit should splash the cash on him if there is a chance for them to bring the talented defender to Anfield in this offseason.
