Juventus have announced the signing of Matthijs de Ligt from Ajax Amsterdam for a fee that could reach €75m until 2024. The Dutch becomes the third most expensive player in the history of the Italian club behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain.
“Juventus Football Club announces that the agreement with Amsterdamsche Football Club Ajax NV for the definitive acquisition of the registration rights of the player Matthijs de Ligt has been reached for a consideration of €75m, payable in five financial years, and additional costs of €10,5m.” Juventus said in a statement.
“Juventus signed a five-year performance contract with the same player until June 30, 2024.” Bioanconeri added.
De Ligt is regarded as one of the best young players in world football after two stunning seasons in the Ajax first team. On 16 April 2019, de Ligt scored the winning goal in the Champions League quarter-final against Juventus to send Ajax on to the semi-finals.
His agent Mino Raiola has close links with Juventus, with several stars he controls playing for the club.
“For a defender, coming to Italy is an important step. He intends to become the best defender in the world. In young people, it is certainly the No.1,” Raiola said.
“He has demonstrated his level. He must still work. He has everything to become the best. With great champions like Bonucci and Chiellini, he will continue to learn.
When asked about Barcelona, Raiola has insisted a move to Barcelona was never on the cards for the 19-year-old defender.
“Barcelona? You all wrote so much bullshit! 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.” Raiola said.
“If you are to become the greatest in the world, it is a necessary stage. 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.” he added.
