Amid strong interest from Premier League sides, Matthijs De Ligt has seemed disinterested in engaging in the extension talks with Juventus, which wish to add two years to his deal expiring in 2024. In return, his entourage asked to reduce his €120M release clause.
CEO Maurizio Arrivabene added fuel to fire in an interview with TuttoSport.
“It is impossible to keep a player that wants to leave, but it is always a matter of numbers. It is not like you just show him the door. When it happens, all three parties must leave the negotiating table satisfied. In the end, whoever has the most money still wins.”
Chelsea offered Timo Werner and €40M for De Ligt, but Juventus turned it down, as they would rather get just cash. As per Alfredo Pedullà, Manchester City are very keen on him too. Manchester United will be in the mix having hired his former Ajax coach Erik Ten Hag, Corriere dello Sport informs.
The prodigy himself hinted that he was unhappy with the direction of the team. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Old Lady have added Presnel Kimpembe to the shortlist of potential replacements. They remain interested in Gabriel, but Arsenal recently rejected a bid for him from the French champions.
Our Take on Juventus Possibly Selling De Ligt
Unless the negotiation for a new contract has an unexpected breakthrough in short order, this would be the last opportunity for the Old Lady to cash in on him fully. While that would be tough, the earnings would bankroll multiple acquisitions. The 22-year-old has not exactly been dominant during his time in Italy so far, although his potential is immense. If the directors played their cards right and nailed his substitute, they could come out from the ordeal with a better squad.