Chelsea and Liverpool target Matthijs de Ligt has handed in a transfer request, according to Corriere dello Sport
The Dutchman is currently Juventus’ highest earner, and contractural issues are believed to have influenced his decision to seek a way out.
The Italian giants do want to hand the defender a new contract. For Juventus fans, this is viewed as essential after Giorgio Chiellini’s recent departure.
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However, if de Ligt is to extend his stay in Italy, he would only accept a pay cut if his £100 million release clause is reduced.
Juventus aren’t prepared to offer him such a deal and the Holland international has run out of patience.
This’ll put Premier League clubs, especially the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool on red alert.
The West London are desperate for a new centre-back following the respective exits of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
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The Blues are said to be pursuing the likes of Jules Koundé and Nathan Aké as well as de Ligt.
Liverpool on the other hand aren’t particularly short-changed at centre-back. They have a number of high-quality options in Virgil Van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Joel Matip, and Joe Gomez.
However, the Reds have been long-term admirers of de Ligt, and could view his availability on the market as too good an opportunity to pass up on.
The 22-year-old of course partners Virgil Van Dijk in central defence for his country, so he’d likely settle into the Premier League straight away.
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de Ligt hasn’t set the world alight in Italy, but he has been playing for a very poor Juventus side.
He is still one of Europe’s most promising defenders, and top clubs across the continent should be watching him closely.
He wouldn’t be cheap; Juventus of course have no obligation to sell the Dutchman.
However, bringing in a defender of de Ligt’s calibre is an attractive proposition for any top side.
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Topics: Liverpool Transfer News & Rumours, Liverpool, Matthijs De Ligt