Manchester United target Matthijs de Ligt 'honoured' by transfer talk

After 10 years with the Dutch club, the 18-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Amsterdam Arena to a number of Europe’s biggest sides

Wednesday 06 June 2018 07:51 EDT
Comments
Matthijs de Ligt in action for Ajax against Manchester United
Matthijs de Ligt in action for Ajax against Manchester United (Getty)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Manchester United target Matthijs De Ligt has admitted it is an “honour” to have been linked with Jose Mourinho’s side, alongside the likes of Barcelona and Juventus.

Since breaking into Ajax’s senior set-up, the youngster has emerged as one of the game’s most promising defensive prospects.

After 10 years with the Dutch club, the 18-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Amsterdam Arena to a number of Europe’s biggest sides.

Barcelona have reportedly been keeping close tabs on de Ligt as they consider a long-term replacement for Gerard Pique while Juventus and United have similarly been linked to the youngster.

Addressing the recent speculation over his future, the player said it was a “real honour to be associated with some big clubs” but refused to say which side he would be willing to join.

“I’m not in touch with anyone yet,” de Ligt told Italian outlet Tutto Mercato after Holland’s 1-1 draw with Italy on Monday night. “I’m here with my national team, focused on this.

“Of course, it’s a real honour to be associated with some big clubs but it does not change for me, I just have to continue to play well.

“I hope I can grow as much as possible and that’s why it’s important to play every week at high levels.

“Who would I choose between Juve, Barcelona and United? It’s difficult, they’re all great teams.

“We must think about it, understand what is the best step to do. At the moment I do not know, I’m on vacation and I can think about it.”

Ajax have valued De Ligt at between £35-44m, with Arsenal said to be interested in signing him up as well.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in