According to reports, FC Barcelona are currently leading the race for the services of Ajax’s defensive sensation, Matthijs de Ligt but the Catalans could face stiff competition from the likes of Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Manchester City and Arsenal.
Arsenal, in particular, have shown a lot of intent in the transfer market, of late, having signed the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Henrikh Mkhitaryan earlier this year. In fact, head coach Arsene Wenger has already insisted that the Gunners will continue their spending spree in the summer, meaning we could definitely expect some star players to join the club next season.
One of which, could be Matthijs de Ligt. Even though Barcelona are labelled as hot-favourites in the pursuit of the youth defensive gem, Arsenal will be desperate to sign a centre-back this summer, considering the fact that the club captain Per Mertesacker will be hanging up his boots at the end of the season.
Furthermore, the Gunners could even undergo some massive overhaul in the defensive department next season, with the likes of Laurent Koscielny and Nacho Monreal being their only reliable options at the CB positions. Rob Holding’s breakout has helped Arsene Wenger have an extra option but the youngster is still yet to make a bigger impression in the Premier League this season while Calum Chambers is destined to leave Emirates in the upcoming transfer window.
Therefore, the addition of Matthijs de Ligt could be pivotal for the North-London giants, whose performance in the league has been highly unsatisfactory, this season. The Ajax starlet has shown massive potential in the Eredivisie as well as in the European competitions this campaign and is currently regarded as one of the most talented young defenders in world football.
His superb ball-playing abilities coupled with his great aerial and physical presence in the Ajax’s defensive backline has earned him a ton of plaudits so far. The 18-year-old has the maturity well beyond his years while his 6ft 2-inch frame makes him an intimidating defensive figure for any striker in the world.
Aside from his defensive qualities, however, de Ligt is also dangerous when it comes to set-pieces or corners. His superior aerial prowess often makes him a target inside the box.
In addition, Ajax’s style of play is more or less identical to Arsenal’s possession-based football under Arsene Wenger, meaning the youngster should have no difficulties in integrating with the new style of play. Matthijs de Ligt has already shown an immense amount of potential this season and looks ready to make the next step in his career, hence, it would be interesting to see how his transfer saga takes shape this summer.
