Juventus are now prepared for Matthijs de Ligt to stay at the club in January according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 22-year-old centre-back has been linked with a move to Barcelona. However, it has been reported that the Catalan side will wait until the summer before trying to sign the Dutchman.
The cash-strapped Spanish giants are looking to reduce their wage bill before making their move for De Ligt. The 22-year-old has a €125m release clause, but that isn’t set to deter Barcelona despite their current financial situation.
Matthijs de Ligt to Stay at Juventus for the Time Being
Turin Exit Looks Inevitable for De Ligt
Matthijs de Ligt is one of the most talented young centre-halves in Europe. However, since his move from Amsterdam-based club Ajax to Turin, it is fair to say that he hasn’t hit the heights that were expected of him.
His place in the starting lineup has been anything but set in stone since the transfer and he has had to share game time with veteran stars Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.
Barcelona are eager to bolster their defence and De Ligt would perfectly fit the bill. He is composed on the ball and has a great range of passing which would complement new boss Xavi’s style of play.
The Netherlands international may not be leaving in January but it does appear to be just a matter of time before he leaves Turin.
Memphis Depay and Ousmane Dembele Not Part of Alvaro Morata Deal
While De Ligt won’t be on the move in January, it is entirely possible that Alvaro Morata will.
Negotiations between Barcelona and Juventus regarding the Spaniard are ongoing, but according to Fabrizio Romano, neither Memphis Depay nor Ousmane Dembele will be part of any exchange deal.
According to Romeo Agresti of Goal, the Spanish outfit have struck a deal with Morata, however, both parties must wait for Juventus to find a replacement for the striker before the transfer is signed off.
Also, the forward is still contracted to Atletico Madrid until 2023. This means the Catalan club would also have to reach an agreement with Diego Simeone’s side before a move could be completed.
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