Juventus and Mino Raiola will soon meet to discuss the future of in-demand center-back Matthijs de Ligt amid Chelsea and Manchester United speculation. The Bianconeri and the so-called super-agent share a strong bond, and despite Raiola’s recent comments on the defender’s future, will sit at the negotiating table (via Calciomercato).
Juventus dashed out €75m to sign De Ligt from Ajax in summer 2019 as part of the club’s efforts to inject fresh blood into their aging backline. The 22-year-old has experienced a topsy-turvy start to life in Turin, which could go down to his immaturity and a lack of top-flight football. However, working with the likes of Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini has helped the Dutchman develop his skills.
De Ligt has turned into one of Juventus’ defensive cornerstones, becoming arguably one of the best center-backs in Serie A over the past two seasons. As the ex-Ajax man continues to master his trait, clubs from across Europe are taking an interest in his services. After Barcelona, Chelsea and Man United are now keen on luring the youngster away from the Allianz Stadium.
Juventus are going through a transition period and want to stick to some of their highly-rated juvenile players to shape a new era in Turin. De Ligt is one of those players, but the Italian heavyweights have to convince the prodigious defender to pledge his long-term future to the club.
At the same time, the Bianconeri are looking to trim down their wage bill, and De Ligt is one of the club’s highest earners. With his current contract running out in 2024, Juventus could make a substantial profit by selling their sought-after whizz-kid.
Chelsea and Man United both have the economic capacity to meet Juventus’ asking price. Since both Premier League powerhouses are on the lookout for a new center-back, they could soon come knocking on Juve’s door.
Therefore, the saga involving De Ligt’s future is just getting started.