Bayern Munich have entered the race for Juventus centre-back Matthijs de Ligt but are unlikely to be able to compete with Chelsea financially, according to Sky Germany.
Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has reportedly started negotiations over a potential move for the 22-year-old.
Sky Germany claims that Julian Nagelsmann is looking for a vocal leader in his defensive line, and De Ligt, who is a former Ajax captain, is certainly a suitable candidate.
The young centre-back is reportedly open to joining Bayern after already expressing his desire to leave Juventus.
The report suggests Salihamidzic and Nagelsmann have personally contacted De Ligt which helped convince the player about a potential move to Bayern.
The Bundesliga champions, however, are not the only club in the race.
Chelsea are said to be ahead in pole position to sign De Ligt, who has been described as Thomas Tuchel’s priority defensive target.
The report mentions that Juventus’ high demand is a major stumbling block for Bayern.
The Italian club reportedly wants any negotiations for the Netherlands international to start at €80million (£68.9m), but Bayern are not prepared to spend more than €60m (£51.6m).
Since it remains unclear whether Bayern could afford Juventus’ asking price, Sky Germany claims that Chelsea are the more likely summer destination for De Ligt.
Bayern are still hoping to be able to negotiate the price, however, as De Ligt himself is thought to “favour” a move to Bundesliga.
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