According to Mundo Deportivo (via Mirror), Real Madrid have joined Manchester United and Barcelona in the pursuit of Matthijs de Ligt. The Dutchman has been linked with a big-money move this summer after an incredible campaign at Ajax.
Barcelona were believed to be front-runners in securing the services of de Ligt. But, the report claims that arch-rivals Real Madrid have also entered the scene as Los Blancos try to ensure a long-term replacement for Sergio Ramos.
What can de Ligt offer to the table?
De Ligt is already regarded as one of Europe’s best defenders, having enjoyed a stellar campaign with Ajax. As far as gameplay is concerned, the 19-year-old is one of the best passers in the Eredivisie, completing over 2,200 passes with an accuracy of 89%. His ability to pass in between the lines or to deliver a long and accurate diagonal ball helps his team in the build-up phase.
The defender is physically strong enough to apply pressure on the opposition ball-carrier and win back possession. But, it’s his aerial prowess that makes him such a solid defender. The Dutchman has won almost four headed duels per game, mainly thanks to his tall 188cm frame. It also makes him an indirect threat from set-pieces, with the defender notably scoring seven goals in all competitions during the 2018/19 campaign.
Should Real Madrid make a move for de Ligt?
Real Madrid should definitely provide intense competition to Barcelona and Manchester United in the pursuit of de Ligt. The young defender is brimming with quality as well as potential. And at the age of just 19, he can be groomed into a long-term replacement for Ramos.
The veteran defender has been linked with a move away from Santiago Bernabeu. And even though the Spaniard now claims that he wants to retire at Real Madrid, it’s needless that he is already nearing the final phase of his career. Indeed, at the age of 33, Ramos will not be able to take care of the Real Madrid backline in the coming future. De Ligt, in that regard, could be a viable option for Los Blancos given his all-around defensive quality.
The Dutchman may not be an ideal partner to Raphael Varane, considering the similarities in their style of play. That means Real Madrid, one way or another, will lack a robust defender, who can marshall the defence – someone like Ramos.
But, the Spanish giants are already devoid of reliable options in the centre-back position and signing de Ligt could be an excellent way of reinforcing their defensive unit as they aim to return to the pinnacle of European football next season.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
