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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
James Pearce

Liverpool's stance on Matthijs de Ligt revealed as Barcelona transfer rumours persist

Liverpool have no plans to make a move for £65million-rated Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt this summer.

The Reds have been heavily linked with the 19-year-old Netherlands international with some reports suggesting they had opened discussions over a potential deal.

However, the ECHO understands that is not the case and that Liverpool are not trying to secure the services of De Ligt.

Jurgen Klopp is happy with his centre-back options and isn't looking to strengthen his squad in that department. 

Joel Matip has impressed alongside Virgil van Dijk in the second half of this season with Joe Gomez and Dejan Lovren providing cover.

Gomez excelled earlier in the campaign before a broken leg sidelined him for four months. Klopp expects the 21-year-old England international, who is now fully fit, to kick on again next term.

Liverpool player ratings: Average ECHO scores for 2018/19

Barcelona remain in pole position to sign De Ligt, who plays alongside Van Dijk for the Dutch national side.

Manchester City and Manchester United have also shown interest in the youngster, who helped Ajax win the Eredivisie and reach the Champions League semi-finals.

Klopp's priorities this summer remain full-back cover and a versatile attacker to fill the gaps created by Alberto Moreno and Daniel Sturridge leaving when their contracts expire next month.

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