In a recent interview, Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk has revealed that the Reds are keeping tabs on the progress of AFC Ajax centre-back Matthijs de Ligt. However, the Dutch international has also disclosed that he has not asked Jurgen Klopp to recruit him.
Speaking to the Dutch media, Van Dijk said, “He is already very far, especially at that age,”
“A good defender, good boy, calm, knows what he wants and hopefully he makes the right choice in his next step.”
When asked about whether de Ligt could make a move to Anfield, the Reds defender added, “He will be on the list because they have enough scouts at the club.
“If they need my opinion at Liverpool, I’ll give it.”
The 19-year-old has already put in some commanding displays for Ajax over the past couple of years which has not gone unnoticed by other teams. It is believed that a whole host of clubs are in pursuit of the Dutch wonderkid’s signature so it shouldn’t be a surprise if Liverpool are among one of those clubs.
What Will de Ligt Add To Klopp’s Side?
At the tender age of 19, de Ligt has managed to establish himself as one of the top young defenders in European football. He commands his box well and is a threat from set-pieces. Moreover, the Dutch prospect has developed a habit of timing his challenges immaculately which helps him win the ball back when his teammates need him the most.
The AFC Ajax youngster has a very promising career ahead of him so the Reds would do well to lure him to Merseyside. De Ligt has managed to come through the youth ranks of Ajax and could now be ready to move to a more competitive league so that he can test himself at the highest level. He will be a perfect understudy to Virgil Van Dijk and will learn a lot about improving his game from the Dutch captain.
One For The Future?
The Reds of Merseyside are looking to build for a bigger and brighter future under Klopp so the acquisition of this Dutch centre-back could be a shrewd move by the German manager if he can fend off stiff competition in pursuit of his talents.
