The Juventus centre-back is reportedly wanted by Real Madrid and Chelsea.
Famed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Matthijs de Ligt has a release clause in his Juventus contract, meaning that he could be up for grabs next summer.
The Dutch centre-back joined the Italian giants in the summer of 2019 for a fee worth 75m euros. However, it hasn’t been plain sailing for the former Ajax star at Allianz Arena as he struggled to be consistent.
The 22-year-old’s exit rumours surfaced during the summer transfer window, with Chelsea being the first club to show interest in him.
Romano says that De Ligt, who is also wanted by La Liga giants Real Madrid, has a release clause worth 150m euros in his contract which could be exercised next summer.
The Italian journalist also added that the Old Lady doesn’t intend to sell him as they see him as a player for the club’s future.
De Ligt’s agent Mino Raiola recently cast doubt on the defender’s future at Turin, stating that there are a handful of suitors for his client.
Raiola said: “De Ligt and [Alessio] Romagnoli are among the strongest defenders in Europe. De Ligt has a contract, while Romagnoli’s deal expires next year.
“Yes, I think they could play together at Juventus next year, but be careful because De Ligt could also leave Juventus at the end of the season. This is how the market works, there are many clubs who are interested in his services.”
Madrid are looking to reinforce their backline after parting ways with Raphael Varane and club legend Sergio Ramos in the summer transfer window.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have identified De Ligt as an alternative for Jules Kounde, who they failed to sign from Sevilla in the summer.
Nonetheless, the odds are less for the Dutch defender to leave Turin next summer given his hefty release clause.
