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Report: PSG leapfrog Barcelona in race to sign Ajax's De Ligt

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One of the most coveted players in the summer transfer market could be on his way to France, as Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly the front-runners to sign Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt, according to ESPN FC's Jonathan Johnson and Julien Laurens.

Previous reports suggested Barcelona were nearing an agreement with the 19-year-old, but it's now understood that PSG have the edge due to former sporting director Leonardo, who's said to be in "constant" contact with De Ligt's agent, Mino Raiola.

Leonardo is reportedly in the French capital finalizing the details of his return after spending the last six years in Italy as AC Milan's sporting director. The Brazilian previously worked at PSG for two years and served as the team's director of football before leaving in 2013.

It's believed that it could take an offer in the region of €80 million to convince Ajax to sell De Ligt.

PSG will have plenty of competition for his signature, as Barcelona, Manchester United, and Juventus have also been linked with him.

Bayern Munich was also understood to be in the running for the Ajax captain's signature, but ESPN FC's Raphael Honigstein reports the Bavarians have withdrawn their interest because of their need to address other areas of concern this summer.

PSG, however, likely won't get too excited about the prospect of being the favorites for De Ligt's services. The Ligue 1 outfit was considered the front-runner to sign his Ajax teammate Frenkie de Jong until Barcelona swooped in to sign the gifted midfielder in January for €75 million.

De Ligt played a pivotal role in helping Ajax reach the Champions League semifinals last season, as well as capturing the Eredivisie title for the first time since 2014.

The successful acquisition of De Ligt could spell the end for Presnel Kimpembe at the Parc des Princes, according to Johnson and Laurens. PSG are reportedly confident they can get at least €40 million for the 23-year-old defender.

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