Liverpool in three way battle with Barcelona and Man Utd for Ajax captain Matthijs De Ligt

Liverpool have been ‘in talks’ with Matthijs De Ligt, according to respected Spanish journalist.

Ajax captain De Ligt has become one of the hottest properties in European football after starring in his side’s thrilling run to the Champions League semi-finals.

He had appeared set to join Barcelona, but a host of other clubs are interested in the 19-year-old, including Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City.

Manchester United desperately need to overhaul their struggling defense, while Manchester City need a replacement for the departing Vincent Kompany.

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If he plumped for Liverpool, De Ligt would partner up with fellow Dutch centre-back Virgil van Dijk to make the Reds’ rearguard even more formidable.

De Ligt was said to be keen to follow Frenkie De Jong to Barcelona, but he is being influenced far more by Raiola than his team-mate was with his agent.

De Jong is understood to have rejected high offers in order to follow his heart to Barcelona, which he felt was the best fit.

Barcelona are trying to convince De Ligt the same is true for him – but Raiola wants to listen to how much other clubs will offer.

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