Juventus have reportedly decided to step up their interest in Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt.

The 19-year-old is regarded as one of the top prospects in European football, and a number of high-profile clubs are said to hold an interest in the Netherlands international.

Barcelona are allegedly near the front of the queue for the centre-back, but according to Tuttosport, Juventus are determined to convince the player to move to Turin.

The report claims that representative Mino Raiola is due to meet with officials of the Serie A champions during the international break.

Sporting director Fabio Paratici is allegedly scheduled to attend Sunday's game between Netherlands and Germany in order to take a look at the player.

De Ligt still has just over two years remaining on his contract, but Ajax may decide to cash in on the academy graduate ahead of next season.