“It’s impossible to keep players when they want to leave the club-but all three parties in the negotiations have to be satisfied”. With these words, Juventus CEO Maurizio Arrivabene shocked the transfer market. In his opinion, Matthijs de Ligt, signed with much fanfare from Ajax in 2019, wanted to move away. However, the Dutch defender earmarked to be one of the top defenders of his generation has struggled to cement his spot in Turin.
The 22-year-old has made 87 appearances across three seasons at the club. And barring the current season, he has also struggled for minutes on the pitch. The Old Lady have struggled for the last two season finishing fourth both times. Andrea Pirlo suffered big time in his first major managerial stint, prompting Massimiliano Allegri’s return.
However, the team failed to win Scudetto as Inter Milan, and AC Milan won a league title. Juventus have also signed Paul Pogba, and with the club still recovering from the effects of a pandemic, De Ligt’s sale will bring up much-needed cash.
But, where will the youngsters go? Which clubs are among the frontrunners for the Cuthman? And where could he be more successful?
FootTheBall looks at the five best landing spots for Matthijs de Ligt if he leaves Turin.
Chelsea
Perhaps the club to go the most distance for signing him is Chelsea. The Blues, under a new owner, are looking to sign players left, right and centre. Antonio Rudiger has already left for Real Madrid, leaving a gaping hole in the defence.
Right now, the club requires a player with a calm head who is brilliant on the ball. De Ligt fits the bill perfectly. He is also a good presser, and playing at Juventus has sharpened his defensive game.
If Chelsea got Matthijs de Ligt, they really would be building an extremely impressive core of young leaders.
• Mason Mount (23 yrs old)
• Reece James (22 yrs old)
• Matthijs de Ligt (22 yrs old)All have captaincy qualities.
— Alex Goldberg (@AlexGoldberg_) June 30, 2022
The new owner Todd Boehly has made it clear that the club will do everything to compete with the best. Media reports have indicated that the two clubs are already in contact. If Chelsea get De Ligt, Raphinha, and Raheem Sterling, Thomas Tuchel’s men will be serious contenders next season.
The Tottenham transfer juggernaut is showing no signs of slowing down as the club snap up Richarlison to further strengthen their squad
Manchester United
While Chelsea are the touted destination…
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