In a recent interview mentioned by the Manchester Evening News, AFC Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt has broken his silence on his future and said, “I don’t know yet. There have been conversations, but there is still no agreement,”.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Manchester City are interested in securing the services of the Dutch defender but will face stiff competition from Manchester United and Barcelona in pursuit of his talents. The defender’s recent revelation increases the possibility of his departure from the Amsterdam club this summer which was echoed by Ajax general manager Edwin van der Sar who said (via Manchester Evening News), “I think these will be de Ligt’s final games with Ajax, but I hope he goes out on a high.”
De Ligt’s Fantastic Season At The Johan Cruijff ArenA
The Dutch wonderkid came through Ajax’s prestigious youth set up before he finally established himself as a first-team starter for the Dutch giants last year. De Ligt has featured in 54 matches for Erik ten Hag’s side this term, registering seven goals while creating four assists in all competitions. More importantly, the Netherlands international has made an average of 1.1 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 4.0 clearances per game for the Eredivisie outfit so far (Stats taken from Whoscored).
The 19-year-old has enjoyed a brilliant campaign as his vital defensive contributions had helped his team reach the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League where they were eventually beaten by Tottenham Hotspur on away goals earlier this month.
What Will The Dutch Starlet Bring To The Etihad Stadium?
De Ligt is destined for greatness in European football as he has all the makings to become a world-class centre-back in the coming years. The Dutch defensive ace keeps calm under pressure and can be dominant figure inside his own box. Furthermore, he reads the game well which enables him to make some important interceptions for his side in defence.
The Dutch international’s stellar goals and assists tally this season prove that he can be a lethal presence at both ends of the pitch which only enhances his reputation in European football. Man City would do well to recruit a player of De Ligt’s incredible potential in the coming months.
Should Guardiola Step Up His Chase For de Ligt?
The Ajax star will undoubtedly bolster Pep Guardiola’s defensive options at the Etihad Stadium as he has enough quality in his locker to secure a regular starting berth under the Spanish head coach. Hence, the Citizens should do everything in their power to convince the Dutch whizkid to seal a move to the blue half of Manchester ahead of the new campaign.
