Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has given the biggest hint yet that the Spaniards have won the race to sign in-demand Ajax captain Matthijs de Ligt this summer.
The centre-back has long been admired by Europe’s biggest clubs after enjoying a sensational rise through the ranks in Amsterdam.
Barcelona have been the team leading that chase for some time, with the Nou Camp outfit keen to add the talented Dutchman to their defensive ranks.
Premier League pair Liverpool and Arsenal are also reportedly interested in the defender, while Bayern Munich and Juventus have been keeping a close eye on his situation.
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While Bartomeu remained tight-lipped on the future of the Ajax player, the Barca chief suggested he already knows where he’ll ply his trade next season.
"There will be time to speak about him. Each year the club has an interest in making signings and this summer will be the same,” he told ESPN .
“De Ligt, like the other best players, is on the table.
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"He is a great player and a great centre-back. I know what will happen with him but it's not the moment [to talk]."
According to Calciomercato , the defender is intent on joining Barcelona where he will link up with current Ajax teammate Frenkie de Jong.
Barca have already completed the £65million signing of De Jong, with the midfielder joining at the end of this season, and De Ligt wants to follow suit.
