What’s the rumour?
Manchester City have reportedly moved ahead of Barcelona in the race to sign highly-rated Ajax defender Matthis De Ligt who is valued at £75 million.
In case you didn’t know…
Matthis De Ligt is currently one of the most sought-after players in Europe, with both Barcelona and Manchester City making their interests known.
The 19-year-old Dutch international has already made 97 appearances for Ajax and boasts a wealth of experience considering his age./cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63036413/1062427082.jpg.0.jpg)
The centre-back has also been instrumental in the Dutch club’s amazing run in both the Eredivisie and Champions League.
Man City and Barca are looking for long-term replacements for their ageing defenders and have identified De Ligt as the perfect option.
Both teams tried to sign the youngster last summer but failed after Ajax reportedly refused to let their prized asset go.
The heart of the matter
According to the Guardian, Manchester City have moved ahead of Barcelona in the race for De Ligt.
The tabloid reports that Barca are considering pulling out due to the defender’s high valuation, which is pegged at £75 million.
Man City, though, are reportedly willing to splash the stipulated amount in order to land the centre-back. Pep Guardiola views De Ligt as a long-term replacement for City captain Vincent Kompany, who has been plagued by niggling injuries in recent years.
Rumour probability: 7/10
Manchester City are currently not short on defenders, but Guardiola is a manager who always wants to improve his squad and that makes this move highly possible.
Barcelona, on the other hand, could be De Ligt’s preferred choice but the Blaugrana’s refusal to meet his valuation could scupper the move, leaving City in pole position.
What’s next?
Man City will be facing Newport County in the FA Cup over the weekend, while Barca will also take on Real Valladolid in La Liga