Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt hints at Barcelona move

Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt has said that it "would be nice" to play alongside Frenkie de Jong and Lionel Messi at Barcelona.

The Netherlands international is widely expected to move to a top European club in the summer, having made an impact for club and country over the past 12 months.

Paris Saint-Germain are said to be in contention to win the race for the youngster's signature, despite Barcelona long being considered to be the frontrunners.

However, De Ligt has acknowledged that he is still contemplating a switch to Camp Nou, admitting that he would enjoy featuring in a team which involved compatriot De Jong and legendary forward Messi.

The 19-year-old is quoted by Marca as saying: "Barcelona have great defenders and it is logical and normal that there is competition, but it is not something that frightens me.

"Of course it would be nice to play with De Jong and Messi at Barcelona, but I must look at what is best for me."

De Ligt could potentially make a final decision on his future this week.