Chelsea put on red alert after details emerge on De Ligt’s contract

Chelsea could step up their interest in Matthijs De Ligt after a fresh development emerged on the player’s contract at Juventus.

The Dutchman joined Juventus from Ajax in 2019 after excelling brightly as one of the most promising defenders in Europe, still only 19 at the time.

Back then, Juventus had to fend off interest from the likes of Barcelona, Manchester United and PSG, but it is Chelsea who now pose a threat to snap up the player.

De Ligt has two years remaining on his contract, but a release clause in his contract could influence the player’s availability on the transfer market next summer.

So far, Juventus have shown no signs that they want to sell their star defender, but he continues to be linked with a move elsewhere.

It is only early days, but odds from bookmakers still hint at a Juventus stay for the 22-year-old. However, the latest details regarding a clause in the players’ contract could change everything.

Special clause in De Ligt’s contract

It has now been revealed that a €150m sign-on clause exists in De Ligt’s contract, active from the summer of 2022. Any club that can meet that amount will be able to speak to the playerctly and ultimately sign him if they want to.

This was disclosed by reputable journalist Fabrizio Romano while speaking on his YouTube Channel.

Romano gave full insight into the player’s contract situation while explaining that any interested party could make a moveng 2022. However, the journalist did mention that it would be tough for any club to meet that amount in the current climate.

De Ligt is currently managed by super-agent Mino Raiola, and it is important to note that another of his clients in Erling Haaland also has a €75m clause that can be activated next summer as well.

Will Chelsea make a move for De Ligt?

It remains to be seen if Chelsea will act on the latest development, but the chances are rather slim. Admittedly, the Blues are still in search of a centre-back after missing out on one of their top targets in Jules Kounde over the summer.

It will be a bit over the top to imagine that Chelsea will be willing to spend €150m on a defender alone. With that in mind, Juventus might, in retrospect, have nothing to worry about.

In recent months, De Ligt has actually struggled at Juventus, and maybe a new destination could indeed do him good for his football. Barcelona have also been strongly linked with the defender in recent times, and that could be another destination for the Dutchman as well.