Report: Juventus defender is crazy about joining Barcelona

Matthijs De Ligt is very enthusiastic about joining Barcelona, according to Gerard Romero. The ever-reliable Catalan journalist had relayed similar news about a month ago too. This is a piece of sensational news for Barcelona coming forward after a day that saw multiple reports confirming Eric Garcia’s much-awaited transfer.

On Sunday, Juventus drew away to Fiorentina and slipped to the 5th position in Serie A. The danger of playing in the UEFA Europa League looms large over the Bianconeri. This situation will very wildly affect the future of their talented players. The Dutchman is one of the names reportedly annoyed by the situation and feels that he did not sign with the Serie A champions for this.

De Ligt was close to signing for Barcelona in 2019, along with his friend, Frenkie De Jong. Both of them played major roles in their respective areas in Ajax’s dream run to the Semis of the UEFA Champions League during the 2018/19 season. The Dutch superstars have also played an integral role in Netherlands ‘ rise in International Football.

Reports from Italian media have stated that he struggled in adjusting to the Italian way of life in the locker room and general as well. The familiar faces of Ronald Koeman and Alfred Schreuder, and De Jong will elevate the chances of him wanting a move to the Camp Nou.

? — Frenkie de Jong is wishing to play someday with De Ligt at Barcelona, just like they did earlier at Ajax. [sport] pic.twitter.com/kZpTAKIxpe

— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) May 28, 2020

Given the backdrop of his situation in Turin, Andrea Pirlo still trusts the youngster. The Dutchman has been an integral part of Juventus this season. They struggled heavily at the back when De Ligt was unavailable during the start of the season.

One of the many qualities that De Ligt possesses is his leadership. Over the last few years, Barça have been struggling at the back in big games. Football pundits and followers believe that it has a lot to do because there has been a lack of leader at the back ever since Puyol’s departure.

With the possible arrival of the Dutch prodigy, it’s highly possible that the club could get a solution to the problem that they have been facing for a good part of the last 5-6 years.

With all said, signing the Dutch defender would still be a long shot for the Laporta administration. He is currently valued at a whopping €85m. Barça looks set to renew Messi’s contract and make some key additions to the attack next season as well.

Not to mention that with Oscar Mingueza and Ronald Araujo putting in stellar performances week in week out, the defense is probably the area which the board will be least worried about.