Juventus defender Matthijs De Ligt is likely to exit Allianz Stadium at the end of the season. The former Ajax stopper recently appeared in the Bianconeri jersey for the 100th time against Sassuolo but has long been touted leave the pastures of Turin for another European giant in recent transfer windows.
Controversial agent Mino Raiola has been vocal regarding his client’s situation at Juventus, citing many times that De Ligt is ready to move on from the Juventus spell that has not lived up to his reputation as one of the world’s best young centre-backs. The Dutchman, however, is reportedly happy with his stay in Italy and has ‘never openly expressed his intention to change scenery’.
Nevertheless, several clubs are interested in snapping his services, according to reports from Calciomercato.
European champions Chelsea have already made their interest known in the 22-year-old but he is in line to become the Old Lady’s guardian at the back, given the club’s mainstay defenders Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci are reaching the latter stages of their respective careers . However, there is a catch.
In order for De Ligt to stay back in Turin, the Bianconeri are supposed to offer him a contract renewal that has so far not arrived. He will see out his Juventus contract in June 2024.
The defender and his representatives’ stance is not yet known, but one thing is for sure, he is not short of suitors. Spanish giants Barcelona are also interested in luring him and any transfer fees ranging around the €75m mark in Juventus’ coffers will open up negotiations.
De Ligt has 101 Bianconeri appearances under his belt since his move in 2019.
