Juventus ace Matthijs de Ligt has delivered a cryptic message on his future amid speculation linking him with a move away from Turin. Barcelona and Manchester United are keeping close tabs on the Dutchman, who could soon leave the Allianz Stadium.
Things have not always been simple for de Ligt at Juventus since his €75million arrival from Ajax in summer 2019. Despite his patchy form, the 22-year-old is still young and has ample room for improvement. It makes him one of Europe’s most in-demand defenders.
De Ligt looked like he was hitting his stride at Juventus last season. Even though Massimiliano Allegri’s men finished fourth in Serie A, the Dutch international produced arguably his best season since moving to Italy three years ago.
Giorgio Chiellini already waved goodbye to the Turin fan base on the final day of 2021/22, leaving Allegri short of reliable options at the back. Leonardo Bonucci, 35, remains an always-present figure, but he’s not getting younger.
Daniele Rugani has never reached his potential at Juventus, which practically leaves de Ligt as the only dependable long-term solution. It explains why the Bianconeri are so desperate to keep hold of the Dutchman beyond the summer.
However, it could be easier said than done. De Ligt himself looks to be having doubts about his future at Juventus. Currently away on international duty with the Netherlands, he threw his long-term stay in Turin into a corridor of uncertainty.
“There are talks ongoing between me and Juventus. Once the right moment arrives, I will decide to extend or to look further,” he said, as relayed by Fabrizio Romano.
De Ligt’s current contract runs out in summer 2024. That will put Juventus in a strong bargaining position this summer should they decide to cash in on the sought-after defender.
Although Barcelona look desperate to lure the ex-Ajax star to Camp Nou, the club’s immense financial problems will rule them out of the race. That would leave Man United as the likeliest destination for de Ligt.
Erik ten Hag’s appointment as the new chief of staff at Old Trafford supports this theory. The 52-year-old manager has fond memories of his time with de Ligt in Amsterdam.
Ten Hag played a crucial role in establishing the coveted youngster as top-notch talent. Maybe the player would like to rekindle the partnership.