Publications
Partners
Cape Town - Manchester United will have to look elsewhere for a new defender as Ajax ace Matthijs de Ligt has opted to join Juventus.
Reds boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has put a new central defender high on his wanted list and De Ligt, along with the likes of Harry Maguire are known to be targets.
However a move now looks unlikely with reports in Italy claiming that Juve have won the race to sign him.
De Ligt is one of Europe’s most sought-after players after helping Ajax win the Dutch league and cup double while reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League last season.
The 19-year-old said he would make a decision on his future after the Nations League with United, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain also reportedly interested.
However, according to reports in Italy, the Dutch centre-back has made the decision to join Serie A champions Juventus.
It is understood the transfer will cost the Italian side in the region of £62m with personal terms yet to be finalised.
United are also keen on Napoli centre-half Kalidou Koulibaly and will turn to signing a new central defender once they have snapped up Crystal Palace full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
