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Manchester City In The Race For De Ligt

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Manchester City are ready to compete with rivals Liverpool and Manchester United for the signing of Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt. The Old Lady plan on reducing their wage bill, which would include reducing de Ligt’s salary as well. Since he is not in favour of that, he may look for opportunities elsewhere. 

A number of Premier League clubs are looking to avail this opportunity. De Ligt is a man in demand, as he has proven to be one of the most talented defenders at a very young age. He captained Ajax while being just 19. He played a crucial role in their memorable Champions League run in 2018/19, scoring vital goals against Juventus and Tottenham. 

De Ligt is strong, and a monster in the air. Coming through the Ajax academy, he has been brought up on the principles of Johann Cryuff and the importance of playing out from the back. This has made him solid with the ball at his feet as well. He took the world by storm in 2019 and has been a consistent performer for Juventus whenever given the chance.

Although he was believed to be the heir to the imperious partnership of Leonardo Bonucci and Georgio Chellini, Juventus’ financial situation may force their hand. They may have to make a sale of one of their prized assets to accommodate their finances. Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea were interested, and now Manchester City have entered the race, according to The Mirror. 

Where Should De Ligt Go?

Manchester United have Erik Ten Hag, who was the one who gave De Ligt his big break at Ajax. They both certainly share a connection. But if that connection will suffice to convince the Dutchman of a move to Old Trafford remains to be seen. Manchester United had a dismal season last year, which has left them bereft of Champions League football. De Ligt may not be too thrilled with that.

Liverpool and Chelsea offer two more attractive destinations. Perhaps Thomas Tuchel’s team can provide him with the most opportunities after the departures of three defenders in the summer. De Ligt can be a mainstay in the newly rebuilt team, with the new owners too looking to make an ambitious signing. 

Liverpool too have an elite manager and are competitive, but it remains to be seen if they will spend big on a position they are more or less settled in. They may not be the most generous with the wages either.

Manchester City is perhaps the most lucrative destination for De Ligt. He can get to play under one of the best managers of the modern game, and earn significantly well while being the favourite for all titles. Game time will be tough to earn. Though, with him competing with Ruben Dias, Ayermic Laporte and John Stones for minutes. Whatever happens, it will be a delight to see De Ligt in the EPL. He is a supreme talent, and any team’s defence will go up a notch with him in it.

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