Mino Raiola has explained the reasons behind Matthijs de Ligt's decision to join Juventus, amid speculation linking him with numerous clubs across Europe.
The 19-year-old Ajax captain is set to join the Serie A champions for the forthcoming season, who are reported to have won the race for his services ahead of Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United.
Barcelona were the side most heavily linked with the services of the Netherlands international and the deal represents a significant coup for Juventus, as he could lead the defence for the next decade.
Ahead of De Ligt 's unveiling at Juventus, Raiola , the super agent who also represents Paul Pogba, was asked whether moving to Turin was the right decision and he issued a strong response.
"It’s not a question of who wanted him most, but Juve are the best team for him. For a defender it is important to come to Italy. If you are to become the greatest in the world, it is a necessary stage," he told reporters.
"He's the number one among the youngsters. He's like [Pavel] Nedved, maybe more than him, for his mentality and he's like Zlatan [Ibrahimovic] for his ambition. He has it all."
De Ligt could cost Juventus as much as £68m if all add-ons and bonus requirements are met, which is enough to put him as one of the most expensive defenders in the history of football.
